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Advocacy - Massachusetts School Library Association

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Advocacy - Massachusetts School Library Association

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The advocacy page of the MSLA site offers the latest news in library advocacy and ways to support school libraries. Includes sample letters for state legislators.

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3/21/2023 from ALA Public Policy & Advocacy Team
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on a dangerous bill that would pave the way to more censorship in school libraries. Please call your Representative today and ask them to vote NO.
The bill is H.R. 5, the so-called "Parents Bill of Rights Act." While the title might sound good, librarians know not to judge a book by its cover.
H.R. 5 would open the door to more book bans targeting local school libraries. Specifically, it would require schools that receive federal funding to give parents a list of books in their child's school library and create a process for parents to view them on request.
Obviously, parents should be able to know what is in their kid's school library. And they already can. This is already standard local practice, and if a parent wants to know more about the school library, they can just ask. We don't need a federal regulation for this.
But if it became law - especially now, in a climate of unprecedented censorship efforts targeting libraries and schools - H.R. 5 would be weaponized by the people who want to ban even more books.
Tell My Rep to Vote NO on H.R. 5 Let's be clear: even if the House passes H.R. 5, it's expected to go right into the shredder in the Senate. Nonetheless, Representatives need to know that any time legislation threatens to expand censorship, library advocates will stand up to oppose it.
Please call your Rep. TODAY - it only takes two minutes and we provide suggested talking points.

P.S. Follow @LibraryPolicy and @UABookBans for further updates.

Legislation Day 2023

​MBLC Resolution on Book Banning

To register....CONTACT: Will Adamczyk/Eileen Dyer 2/16/2023 from Deborah Lang Froggatt
Virtual First-timers' Legislative Day Information Session: March 8
10:00 - 10:45 am
New library directors, new assistant directors, school librarians and first time attendees are invited to attend this session to learn the basics about this year's Library Legislative Agenda and how you can advocate to your local legislators for these priorities to help serve your community.

legislative@masslib.org
Can't make it to in-person Library Legislative Day on March 15? Join MLA and MSLA for our online version of Legislative Day.
Virtual MLA/MSLA Library Legislative Day, March 8, 2023, 11:00 am

#supportMAlibraries for Virtual Legislative Day. CONTACT: Will Adamczyk/Eleen Dyer legislative@masslib.org

MLA/MSLA Library Legislative Day 3/15/2023 at the Massachusetts State House

REGISTER HERE
Bus coming from Western MA; contact Mike Moran if you would like to attend. moran3@comcast.net
9:00 a.m Check-in Grand Staircase
10:00 - 10:45 Legislative Briefing 1 Rm. 222
1:00 - 11:45 Legislative Briefing 2 Rm. 222 12:00 - 1:00
Luncheon, Remarks & Advocacy Award Great Hall Post Lunch (A table will be set up for school library representatives). Please setup meetings with your legislators.

Feel free to email me with questions.
Deborah Lang Froggatt, Ph.D., Outreach Director
Massachusetts School Library Association
​

January 14, 2023 Back in Boston! Library Legislative Day returns to the State House. Virtual Save the Date: Wednesday March 8 Show your support for libraries by registering to attend a Library Legislative Day. This event is free and is co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) and the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA), with support from the Western Mass. Library Advocates (WMLA) and Central Mass. Library Advocates (CMLA). This is an opportunity to meet your legislators in their offices.
In Person Save the date: Wednesday, March 15th, 2023

Register here for the in person, 3/15 event at the Statehouse: https://masslib.org/event-5060385 Here is the 2024 Legislative Agenda.

You will see that the Worcester and Watertown Talking Book Programs budgets are seeking an increase of 30% If your students use either one of these services, would you please contact me directly as we want to showcase examples of how students benefit.

Please invite and encourage your coworkers and friends to register for this event as well.
The day will include legislative briefings, speakers, and the presentation of the Advocacy Award. Also, we encourage you to make appointments to meet with your local legislators.
Here is a "Save the Date" flyer that you can share with your colleagues and friends.

As the Director of Outreach, I serve on the steering committee for these two events. I also am a member of the MLA Legislative Committee. MA Library System and MA Board of Library Commissioners collaborate with MLA and MLS in order to promote library services funding across the Commonwealth. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Deborah Lang Froggatt - dslangf@gmail.com

MSLA Outreach Director
Former Boston Public School Director of Library Services

December 2022 MSLA was successful in getting the call for every public school to have a Licensed School Library Teacher into the MTA Legislative Agenda! Legislation has not yet been written, but having the MTA join us in this important work is huge! We look forward to working with them to advance their legislative agenda for the next 2 years.

10/3/2022: MTA Member Legislative Proposals for 2023-2024 Background:
When Massachusetts enacted the Education Reform Act of 1993, the state eliminated a requirement for every school to provide students with a library staffed by a licensed school library teacher. This has resulted in an ongoing loss of school libraries and licensed school library teachers in the state of Massachusetts. Although these cuts have occurred across all types of school districts, they have been much deeper in urban and rural lower-income communities and communities of color.

Two different studies have gathered data to highlight these inequities. The first was an extensive study completed by a Rutgers University professor and leaders in the Massachusetts school library community for a Massachusetts legislative commission. In March 2018 the commission released its report on the findings, and this report provided ample data to confirm that there was inequitable access to school libraries and licensed school library teachers. The report also showed disparities between suburban districts and urban or rural districts. (For more information, visit Salem State University's Massachusetts School Library Research Project website via bit.ly/maslresearchproject.)
After the Commission's report was released, some MTA members formed a School Library Task Force and completed a preliminary analysis of access to school libraries and licensed school library teachers based on socioeconomic, ethnic, racial, and second-language demographic data. This study discovered stark inequities in access to licensed school library teachers between the highest-median income Massachusetts cities and towns and the 26 Gateway Cities and Boston, where we find the highest numbers of low-income residents and students of color in the state.
When we consider what both of these studies have found about where students do have access to library resources and licensed school library teachers versus where they don't, we can see clear and ongoing inequities that mirror the inequities we find for low-income students, students of color, and ELL students in other areas of education. (For more information about both of these studies, see "Background on School Libraries in Massachusetts" via bit.ly/mtasltfbg.)
Why this is a problem:

1. Inequitable access to school library resources and staffing provides educational advantages to some students while having a detrimental impact on others. Numerous studies point to the positive impacts of well-funded library programs staffed by licensed school library teachers on students' growth in literacy, academics, and SEL areas. (For some of this research, see bit.ly/lsltresearch.) Denying this valuable resource to some students while providing ample access for others is an example of how institutional racism and classism functions to create and maintain educational injustice in our state.

2. The ongoing loss and elimination of licensed school library teachers has led to a deprofessionalization of the school library field and a loss of MTA members. In many schools, ESPs have replaced licensed school library teachers. Expecting ESPs to perform the same duties as licensed staff for much less pay is exploitation. In addition, the ongoing loss of licensed school library teacher positions results in fewer union members and an overall lower standard of living for library staff compared to some other fields in public education.

3. This ongoing loss of libraries and licensed school library teachers coincides with attacks on democracy and free speech that are currently happening in a digital misinformation environment. Libraries advance free speech, intellectual freedom, information literacy, critical thinking, and equitable access to information. We are living in a misinformation and disinformation age where information literacy skills are more critical than ever, and we need all the tools and resources at our disposal to combat this.
Estimate of how many members are affected

While it may appear that this problem impacts just the segment of the MTA membership who work in school libraries, every PK-12 MTA member is impacted when there is a lack of equitable access to fully-funded school libraries, licensed library teachers, and support staff.

Licensed school library teachers who work in schools with adequate funding for libraries are able to procure, curate, and provide educators and students with direct access to current, high quality books, multimedia, and digital tools and resources to support schoolwide curriculum and literacy goals. Licensed school library teachers are also experts in the information and digital literacy skills needed to navigate a complex information landscape and collaborate with classroom teachers, curriculum teams, and other groups to ensure that students are developing the skills needed in this environment. The presence of school libraries and school library teachers provides a richer and deeper learning experience for all students and enhances the work of other educators.
Proposed solution(s) if known.We are proposing legislation to be filed in the 2023-24 session with three objectives:
1. Require that every public school student in Massachusetts has equitable access to an effective school library program (that is housed in a dedicated space), one that is staffed by a licensed school library teacher, is adequately funded, and has a responsive school library schedule. Rationale: Requiring that all students have access to fully funded school libraries and licensed library staff is an important step towards addressing and correcting the current inequities.

2. Designate someone at DESE to oversee school libraries and library programs. Rationale: DESE currently has no staff or support for library education, curriculum, or professional learning. And even if we create regulations requiring school libraries and licensed school library teachers, without oversight state requirements can be meaningless. This proposal will help advance equitable access to school libraries and licensed staff by ensuring that districts are working to provide it and by working on curriculum and professional development.

3. Establish a School Library Advisory Council at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Rationale: As we work to rebuild school library programs, an Advisory Council can be an important tool for gathering stakeholder input and advocating for curriculum, programming, funding, and more for school libraries. This proposal will help ensure that educators, library professionals, community members, and other stakeholders have a voice at DESE and are able to help influence policies, guidelines and regulations regarding school libraries.

Our proposed legislation will help advance the objectives outlined by the Legislative Special Commission on School Library Services in Massachusetts in its 2018 report to the legislature. The very first item in the report calls for improving access to school libraries and licensed school library teachers. The Commission was first formed in 2014, and almost ten years have passed without measurable improvement equitable access to school library resources. (The report can be accessed via bit.ly/maslresearchproject.) It's time for the legislature to take concrete steps to address these inequities.

May 27, 2022Congratulations! Together, we have closed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Dear Appropriator letters with record bipartisan support for library funding in Congress.
Every single call, email, and meeting with members of Congress has added up to record support for libraries, library workers, and those we serve.

With your help, we have made it clear to Congress: library funding is indespensible. In the House of Representatives, 100 members signed in support of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and 85 signed in support of the Innovative Approaches to Literacy program (IAL), while 47 Senators signed in support of LSTA and an all-time high of 36 Senators signed in support of IAL.

We've gotten off to an amazing start, but the FY 2023 #FundLibraries campaign isn't finished yet. Follow the pathway to Congressional appropriations by following us on Twitter @LibraryPolicy. Our team will alert you when your voice matters most in the process - which is likely to involve some twists and turns!

The 2022 midterm elections provide a chance for elected leaders at every level of government to demonstrate their support for libraries - but advocates like you need to make the first move. Stay tuned for ALA resources to help you make the most of those opportunities. We love working with you and look forward to the adventures ahead!

-ALA Public Policy and Advocacy Team

January 23, 2022

Have you ever wished there was an MSLA letter directed to communities describing the value of certified school library teachers?
MSLA Advocacy is creating an open letter that can be tailored to an individual community, association, newspaper or other organizations when there is a need to advocate for certified school library teachers (CSLT). Recognizing that the role of CSLT's is different between school districts, MSLA Advocacy is crowdsourcing for everyone's input. Our goal is to capture the most salient points that should be expressed when advocating for CSLT's.
Won't you help. Link into the Google Document link supplied. It is open to all.
Please enter your thoughts on what should be contained in the letter. Because the link is open to all, please be careful not to delete another CSLT's suggestion.
Open Letter Suggestions

January 23, 2021
Has the position of a Certified School Library Teacher changed in the past 10 years? How about the past two years?
MSLA Advocacy is creating a current Certified School Library Teacher Job Description, specific to Massachusetts. Our goal is to use the job description to support grassroots advocacy for employing certified school library teachers in every Massachusetts district. All students should have the benefits of a certified school library teacher. Help us to advocate for equity by describing what you do!
Please provide information on the Google Document linked below. Once you review the list of contributions, please add something new to the list. Feel free to add your name to a job description point that is already suggested.

JULY 23, 2021

On June 14th, Senator Eric Lesser and 35 other MA legislators sent a letter to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Commissioner Riley. The letter asked that a census be conducted to better understand public school library resources and employees. Senator Lesser noted that MA funding for library resources (databases, ebooks & more) was not accessible to all, creating an inequity within our public schools. A census is the first step in not only taking stock of the state of school libraries but also gaining important support for future decisions. Because of the efforts of Senator Lesser and those who signed the letter the MSLA Advocacy Committee is asking all members to write one or more thank you emails. Would you consider writing?

​
Because your time is important we have put together linked resources to facilitate your email writing process. The sample email provided will force a copy with customizable places for your information. If you chose not to use the sample email please read to get a sense of the intended content. In addition to the sample email, three lists of legislator emails are provided. The first list offers all legislators who signed Senator Lesser's letter. The other lists are for all Senators and Representatives should you want to share the letter of Senator Lesser and ask for additional support. Finally, we ask that you complete the form asking for the names of those who will be receiving your thank you emails. This record helps us to ensure all have received recognition.

Thank you for supporting this MSLA effort. If you have any questions, please email Georgina Trebbe at
gtrebbe@maschoolibraries.org

Today, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), the American Library Association (ALA), 48 state-level school library associations, and the leadership of the AASL Chapters Assembly sent a letter to President-Elect Joe Biden's transition team stressing how school librarians are an equity-oriented solution to some of the most pressing concerns facing educators at this moment. The full letter can be read January 8, 2021: AASL Letter to the Biden-Harris Transition Team
here.

The letter asks President-Elect Biden and incoming Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to include the following priorities as they lay the groundwork for a Department of Education focused on equity for all learners:

provide Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) guidance that addresses the role of school librarians

improve National Center for Education Statistic (NCES) data collection to accurately reflect the presence of a certified school librarian at the building level

adjust the NCES definition of school librarian to reflect their instructional role and national standards

ensure that, as teachers, school librarians are eligible for the same federal supports as their colleagues

"The association and members of the profession are ecstatic to learn that the Department of Education will focus on equity under President Biden," said AASL President Kathy Carroll. "With the support of the AASL Chapters, our national organization has sent a strong message outlining the necessity of qualified school librarians to ensure the realization of the ED's vision. We look forward to working closely with Secretary Cardona to ensure every student has a school librarian and making a reality of our own vision statement: 'every school librarian is a leader; every learner has a school librarian."

July 7, 2020 - Advocacy Tool Kit for at Risk Libraries and Positions
As a result of the Covid-19 crisis, many school districts are heading into uncertain times. In anticipation of a possible increase in budget cuts, which may put libraries and librarian positions in jeopardy, MSLA has created a form to streamline the collection of data about positions that are at-risk. Additionally we will continue to provide our members with materials for advocacy in your school and school district. ​

Advocacy Request Form- MSLA leadership is collecting information about staffing changes in school libraries across Massachusetts this school year. Please complete this form if your position or physical library has changed in ways that impede your teaching and programming. We will not share this with anyone or contact your school or district unless you request it. If you indicate you are seeking assistance in advocating for school library services and/or school library positions, the Massachusetts School Library Association stands ready to assist!

An Advocacy letter from MSLA - A statement that can be presented to school boards and administrators in support of school library programs.

Everyday Advocacy page - Offers ideas for advocacy throughout the school year with links to studies, research and opportunties to get involved.

May 20, 2020 - Call to Action! from President Laura Luker (excerpted from her letter to members)

Last week nearly 400 Massachusetts library workers and supporters gathered virtually to urge state legislators to support the Library Legislative Agenda the Commonwealth's libraries at Virtual Library Legislative Day. There was a strong sense of urgency because school and public libraries - vital and essential institutions - need support. State support for libraries more important than ever, especially to school libraries with support for online databases and ebooks.

Ask your State Representatives and Senators for your home and school's location to support all of the lines in the Library Legislative Agenda to the best of their ability. Let's make sure state funding for libraries is supported as use increases during the current economic crisis.

We're urging you to call upon your elected officials to support libraries! We suggest including information about why you believe that libraries are important in your message.

You can find contact information for your State Legislators at LINK to call their office or send them an email, or

You can visit the Massachusetts Library Association's Engage site to send a prepared message that you can customize with a sentence about your library. It only takes a minute! at LINK.

April 14, 2020: Congressional leadership has started work on a new COVID-19 relief package, and we are working to ensure libraries of all types are included. Today, we need your help to get the library message to Congress.
Reps. Andy Levin (D-MI), Don Young (R-AK), and Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) are circulating a Dear Colleague letter calling for $2 billion in emergency funding for libraries through the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The funding would be available through the Library Services and Technology Act grants to states program, ensuring that libraries everywhere will have access to support. Please email your representative in the House and urge them to sign and support America's libraries.

Feburary 1, 2020 - There are important upcoming library advocacy events that would greatly benefit from MSLA member participation, such as Library Legislative Day and Legislative Breakfasts. Consider:

Sen. Amy Kloubuchar (D-MN) has introduced a bill outlining the importance of digital and media literacy and providing potential funding for states! There are seven senate sponsors, but none from Massachusetts. Contact Senators Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren and ask them to add their names to the list! Find out more about the bill here.

As of January 6, 2020, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) is offering more resources. This is the result of the national increase in funding for the Institute of Museum & Library Services (read more below). What this means for your library:

Opposing Viewpoints (Gale) is back!
Four new databases:
Read detailed descriptions below. To get links for these resources go to MBLC Website.
FROM ALA Advocacy 1/3/2020:
​The American Library Association advocacy called on you frequently in 2019 - to tweet, to email, to act, and to give. In the first few days of 2020, we wanted to be sure to report back, to let you know how it went, and to thank you.

As you know, our goal was to restore library funding after the White House proposed elimination for the third time last March. Short version: we did it and got a record increase!

Here are some quick highlights:

We secured a $10 million increase for the Institute of Museum and Library Services, including $6.2 million for the Library Services and Technology Act - the largest increase in LSTA funding in 12 years.

We protected the Innovative Approaches to Literacy program from elimination, safeguarding $27 million in funding for school libraries.

New advocates from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and Washington D.C. joined the #FundLibraries campaign.

Every member of Congress heard from ALA and our advocates about the importance of libraries and their impact in communities across the country. Without a doubt, this is the reason why library funding has steadily grown over the past three years.

In addition to your work on the #FundLibraries campaign, you stepped up big time to support the #eBooksForAll campaign - with 236,858 signatures and counting - helped to pass the GREAT Act, prepared libraries across the country for the 2020 Census, and continued pushing for increased library funding at the state and local levels.
We really just want to say thank you.
We say it a lot, but that's because it's true: we couldn't do any of this without you.

A big congratulations to you, ALA advocates, for these impressive and hard-fought victories. Thanks to your year-round advocacy, you have made these successes possible.
Let's get 2020 off to a strong start by thanking your elected officials for supporting library funding and sharing ALA's 2020 Congressional Calendar with your colleagues and planning how you can continue to engage year-round with your elected officials!
We look forward to building on these accomplishments in 2020 and seeing you at National Library Legislative Day in May.
Thanks again,
The ALA Advocacy Team
PS - Please take a minute to send a tweet to your elected officials today, thanking them for their work to #FundLibraries.

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3/21/2023 from ALA Public Policy & Advocacy Team This week, the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on a dangerous bill that would pave the way to more censorship in school libraries. Please call your Representative today and ask them to vote NO. The bill is H.R.

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Scholastic's Branches subdivision with many great early chapter books and series recommendations.

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Scholastic's Branches line of early chapter books is designed for those ready to read independently and helps them transition from leveled readers to chapter books. With an array of series featuring riveting stories, fun characters, and engaging art, there is a Branches book for every reader!

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Scholastic's Branches line of early chapter books is designed for those ready to read independently and helps them transition from leveled readers to chapter books. With an array of series featuring riveting stories, fun characters, and engaging art, there is a Branches book for every reader!

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School Libraries – Library Research Service

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School Libraries – Library Research Service

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Provides great resources for library study research

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Colorado

Explore extensive LRS research and other states' studies on school libraries and student achievement with this exhaustive guide.

Quickly access individual school library data and comparative statistics with these School Library Profiles based on the annual School Library Survey.

View and download statistics from the annual Colorado School Library Survey using our interactive tool, static files, or individual school library profiles.

Other

Get the national picture in school library statistics with these state and national reports from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Access school library statistics for states other than Colorado through these resources from state library websites.

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Explore extensive LRS research and other states' studies on school libraries and student achievement with this exhaustive guide. Quickly access individual school library data and comparative statistics with these School Library Profiles based on the annual School Library Survey. View and download statistics from the annual Colorado School Library Survey using our interactive tool, static files, or individual school library profiles.

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A list of assistive technology devices that are helpful in the school library.

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100 Children’s Authors and Illustrators Everyone Should Know | Reading Rockets

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100 Children’s Authors and Illustrators Everyone Should Know | Reading Rockets

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Browse lists by age level (age 4-12) of book authors and illustrations that are acclaimed, beloved and/or popular

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It's not impossible to list every great author and illustrator of children's books out there, but it would be an extraordinarily long list! This list is meant to help introduce children and caring adults to 100 creators who are acclaimed in the field of children's literature and connect kids to thoughtful, engaging, and joyful reading experiences.

This list is organized by age range and then by the author's last name, though many of these authors and illustrators create books for all ages of readers. Getting to know these authors and illustrators gives kids the opportunity to continue to read favorite writers as they grow.

Authors of beloved classics such as Beatrix Potter, A.A. Milne, Lewis Carroll, Margaret Wise Brown, E.B. White, C.S. Lewis, Roald Dahl, Beverly Cleary, Eric Carle, Richard Scarry, Maurice Sendak, and Judy Blume for example, have not been included here as they already are quite well-known, having published enduring titles that many generations have enjoyed. Nor will you find contemporary best-selling household names such as Jeff Kinney, J.K. Rowling, Dav Pilkey, Rick Riordan, and R. J. Palacio on this list as they produce wildly popular titles that kids will likely encounter through word of mouth or in other media.

Of course, everyone has their favorites! If there are other authors or illustrators you think everyone should know, please share your suggestions in the comments.

Browse by age

Babies through age 4 (board books)

Jabari Asim

Asim's board books with fresh, free-flowing verse encourage silliness and curiosity, while his picture books and middle grade titles often focus on African American history.

Sandra Boynton

Tuned into toddlers, Boynton has created a menagerie of playful, spontaneous animal characters that fill more than 60 titles.

Donald Crews

This two-time Caldecott award winner presents objects and scenes familiar to young children using artfully designed bold graphic images.

Lois Ehlert

Ehlert was an artist who wasn't afraid to wire, sew, glue, cut, paint, or photograph to pro-vide highly original children's books full of stunning shapes and strong colors. Our video interview with Lois Ehlert ›

Mem Fox

Australia's best-known children's book author of more than 40 board books and picture books, Fox is also passionate advocate for reading aloud to children. Our video interview with Mem Fox ›

Vashti Harrison

Author, illustrator, and filmmaker Harrison introduces young children to Black history and women's history with sweet, serene depictions of world-changers.

Tana Hoban

An accomplished photographer who turned her images reflecting a child's viewpoint in looking at the world into innovative concept books.

Bill Martin Jr

The author of more than 300 children's books, Martin was skilled at writing simple, melodic texts helpful to beginning readers. Our video interview with Bill Martin Jr ›

Helen Oxenbury

Renowned picture book illustrator Oxenbury captures humor, drama, and more in an appealing and memorable way. Our video interview with Helen Oxenbury ›

Rosemary Wells

Author and illustrator of more than 60 books, Wells has a terrific understanding of what matters to young children. Our video interview with Rosemary Wells ›

Age 4-8 (picture books)

Mitsumas Anno

Passionate about math and science, this renowned artist, children's book author-illustrator, and Hans Christian Andersen Medal winner created highly detailed illustrations that take readers on imaginative journeys.

Andrea Beaty

A natural at rhyme, Beaty fills STEAM-themed picture books and chapter books with curiosity, creativity, innovation, persistence, and problem-solving. Our video interview with Andrea Beaty ›

Jan Brett

Best-selling author/illustrator Brett does extensive research before beginning her intricately detailed illustrations which often include story subplots woven into creative page borders.

Tami Charles

A former teacher, Charles writes lyrical, affirming texts for her picture books as well as middle grade and young adult titles.

Bryan Collier

Award-winning illustrator Collier uses a vibrant combination of watercolor and collage to bring his characters, mostly real historical figures, to life on the page. Our video interview with Bryan Collier ›

Raúl Colón

Renowned for his luminous children's book illustrations, Colón layers color to create the bold, often dramatic illustrations featured in his books. Video interview with Raúl Colón from Colorín Colorado ›

Barbara Cooney

Though Cooney shifted styles of illustrating during her long career, her artistic style is often considered as folk art and her work infused with respect for children's moral and intellectual sophistication.

Matt de la Peña

Newbery Medal-winning author de la Peña writes poignant, lyrical picture books (often about class) as well as middle grade and young adult novels. Our video interview with Matt de la Peña ›

Tomie dePaola

A warm and energetic artist who used a distinctive black line and folk-art style, dePaola's books are filled with imagination, gentle humor, and stories inspired by his own life. Our video interview with Tomie dePaola ›

Leo and Diane Dillon

This award-winning husband-and-wife artist team work on the same piece of art in the many books they authored and/or illustrated honoring African culture.

Margarita Engle

An author free verse young adult novels, author and poet Engle also writes lovely, lyrical picture books that celebrate historical figures and Cuban culture. Video interview with Margarita Engle from Colorín Colorado ›

Julie Flett

Artist, author, and illustrator Flett is warm and gentle illustrations centered around the life and cultures of Indigenous peoples.

Gail Gibbons

Gibbons has a gift for researching complex nonfiction subjects and turning them into clear, colorfully illustrated picture books with strong kid-appeal. Our video interview with Gail Gibbons ›

Eloise Greenfield

Greenfield richly captured the rhythm and melodies of everyday African American family life and historical figures in her poetry, picture books, and biographies for children.

Kevin Henkes

Author of award-winning middle grade titles, Henkes is also a Caldecott Medal winner and writes and illustrates simple, yet elegant picture books that often feature admirable mouse characters.

Steve Jenkins

Passionate about science, Jenkins answered curious kids' questions in his nonfiction picture books illustrated in vibrant and exquisite cut- and torn-paper collage.

Steven Kellogg

Kellogg writes and draws in what he calls a "beautiful duet" creating highly detailed color filled drawings to deepen and expand the text of his stories. Our video interview with Steven Kellogg ›

Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen

Both Klassen and Barnett are known for their sense of humor and when they work together, the results are sharp, layered, witty picture books. Our video interview with Mac Barnett ›

Leo Lionni

A four-time Caldecott Honor winner, Lionni used collage for his boldly illustrated picture books which look for creative solutions for creative solutions to problems in communities of all kinds.

Minh Lê and Dan Santat

The dynamic duo of Lê and the Caldecott Award-winning Santat delivers comics-inspired storytelling with an emotional punch. Our video interview with Minh Lê ›

Grace Lin

An advocate for diversity in children's books, award-winning author/illustrator Lin creates board books, early readers, and middle grade novels in addition to picture books with universal themes that are about the Asian-American experience. Our video interview with Grace Lin ›

Arnold Lobel

Acclaimed author and illustrator Lobel illustrated nearly 100 books and in his own titles often featured animal characters and their adventures and misadventures.

Rafael López

Passionate about using art to build community, artist, muralist, and illustrator López is a multiple Pura Belpré Award winner who brings his strong graphic style to books that reflect and honor the lives of all young people. Video interview with Rafael López from Colorín Colorado ›

Kelly Starling Lyons

Lyons' mission as an author to "transform moments, memories, and history into stories of discovery" includes a focus on aspects of African American history and culture.

James Marshall

Marshall turned his own tremendous wit and simplistic drawing style into unique, whimsical - and sometime ridiculous - characters.

Juana Martinez-Neal

Author and illustrator Martinez-Neal embraces wonder in the titles she writes and creates richly connected artwork that communicates deep emotions. Video interview with Juana Martinez-Neal from Colorín Colorado ›

Robert McCloskey

McCloskey turned his keen observational skills into award-winning titles that give readers a sense of home and a sense of belonging.

Meg Medina

Award-winning author Medina writes picture books, middle grade stories, and young adult fiction that examines how cultures intersect, as seen through the eyes of young people. Our video interview with Meg Medina ›

Yuyi Morales

Multiple Pura Belpré Award winner Morales, who thinks of everything in her life as an art project, uses spare language and sumptuous imagery in her picture books.

Leuyen Pham

Acclaimed illustrator of more than 100 children's books, Pham worked in animation before turning to drawing and writing children's books and excels in a variety of artistic styles.

Jerry Pinkney

A revered artist, Pinkney delighted in the act of creation and was committed to reflecting Black themes and culture whenever possible in his more than one hundred titles. Our video interview with Jerry Pinkney ›

James E. Ransome

A frequent collaborator with his wife author Lesa Cline Ransome, artist and illustrator Ran-some is a big fan of history and often portrays realistic characters in historical or contem-porary scenes.

Raúl the Third

The lively work of Pura Belpré Award-winning illustrator, author, and artist Raúl the Third centers around the contemporary Mexican American experience.

Christian Robinson

Award-winning illustrator, author, animator, and designer Robinson began his career in animation and tells stories with pictures that reflect our diverse world.

Lane Smith

Known for his playful, quirky style, two-time Caldecott Honor recipient Smith both writes and illustrates, experimenting with texture in the artwork he creates. Our video interview with Lane Smith ›

Traci Sorrel

Sorell writes award-winning fiction and nonfiction for young people of all ages, focusing primarily on the contemporary lives of Native peoples. Our video interview with Traci Sorrel ›

William Steig

Steig wrote sophisticated stories layered with meaning that offer truths about the world to young readers.

Andrea Wang

A writer of nonfiction, middle grade, and picture books, Wang's work explores culture, identity, and belonging.

Mo Willems

The award-winning Willems, who started out in stand-up and television, creates books that are often hilarious but also deal with characters who experiencing emotional extremes. Our video interview with Mo Willems ›

Vera B. Williams

Williams conveyed the joys of ordinary activities in multicultural families in the picture books she wrote and illustrated in bold colors and a folk-art style.

Jacqueline Woodson

Woodson, who has won lots of awards and has served as both the Young People's Poet Laureate and the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, explores universal questions and different perspectives in her picture books as well as her middle grade and young adult titles. Our video interview with Jacqueline Woodson ›

Jane Yolen

The prolific and enchanting Yolen has written some 400 books, including nonfiction, science fiction, fantasy, poetry, and picture books. Our video interview with Jane Yolen ›

Ed Young

Illustrator of more than 100 books for children, many of which he has also written, Caldecott Medalist Young finds inspiration for his work in the philosophy of Chinese painting.

Ages 6-9 (picture books and chapter books)

Monica Brown

Brown's lively narratives are inspired by her Peruvian-American heritage and desire to share Latino/a stories with children. Video interview with Monica Brown on Colorín Colorado ›

Ashley Bryan

Known for retelling African folktales in a distinct rhythmic prose, Bryan was an eclectic artist who fused painting, poetry, music, collage, and prose to tell stories. Our video interview with Ashley Bryan ›

Jason Chin

Known for his stunning and detailed art, Caldecott Medalist Chin builds incredible visual stories, often about the natural world, in the children's books he writes and/or illustrates.

Candace Fleming

Fleming, a versatile author of books and stories for children and young adults, is known for her lively humor in picture books and chapter books, while her nonfiction picture books are praised for her intriguing, lyrical text. Our video interview with Candace Fleming ›

Lee Bennett Hopkins

Hopkins, a prolific children's poet, anthologist, and educator, strove to connect readers to verse to help them think differently about the world.

Patricia McKissack

McKissack, often in collaboration with her husband Fredrick McKissack, showcased Black voices through children's books and biographies with drama and flair. Our video interview with Patricia and Fredrick McKissack ›

Patricia MacLachlan

Children and families are the subjects of most of MacLachlan's elegant, spare, yet emotional historical and contemporary stories.

Kadir Nelson

A painter who produces iconic images for magazines, album covers, stamps, and whose works are exhibited in major institutions, art galleries, and museums, Nelson brings his rich palette and naturalistic technique to his book illustrations. Our video interview with Kadir Nelson ›

Andrea Davis Pinkney and Brian Pinkney

Working in collaboration for 30 years, the Pinkneys have collectively published some 70 books, with Brian Pinkney bringing a range of luminous artistic styles to titles authored by Andrea Davis Pinkney that celebrate the heritage of African Americans.

Jack Prelutsky

One of the most popular children's poets of all time, Prelutsky writes and compiles humorous collections of wonderfully wacky poems. Our video interview with Jack Prelutsky ›

Cynthia Rylant

Author Rylant brings her straightforward style to many popular beginning-reader series in addition to her award-winning novels and picture books.

Seymour Simon

Simon, who writes about science in a way that is accurate, interesting, and accessible, is the author of nearly 300 highly acclaimed science books. Our video interview with Seymour Simon ›

Jon Scieszka

The first-ever National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, Scieszka (rhymes with Fresca) writes playful and cheeky stories and spoofs on fairy tales. Our video interview with Jon Scieszka ›

Melissa Stewart

Stewart, with degrees in biology and science journalism, explores the natural world and brings her firsthand research to some 200 science books for children.

Duncan Tonatiuh

The award-winning Tonatiuh takes inspiration from ancient Mixtec art, adding his own contemporary adaptations in his unique illustrations for his books, which often focus on issues of social justice.

Carole Boston Weatherford

Author and poet Weatherford "mines the past for family stories, fading traditions, and forgotten struggles" in books that often feature African American protagonists. Our video interview with Carole Boston Weatherford ›

Ages 9-12 (illustrated books, middle grade and graphic novels)

Kwame Alexander

Alexander, an award-winning poet and author, writes picture books for children and cross-genre books in verse for older readers that deliver an emotional punch. Our video interview with Kwame Alexander ›

Katherine Applegate

Award-winning author Applegate is skilled at stirring emotions by offering inside views and unique narrator perspectives. Our video interview with Katherine Applegate ›

Joseph Bruchac

Bruchac makes authentic connections in the poetry, short stories, novels, anthologies, and music he creates that reflect his Abenaki Indian heritage and Native American traditions. Our video interview with Joseph Bruchac ›

Jerry Craft

Multiple award-winning author and illustrator of graphic novels, Craft is also celebrated for his syndicated newspaper comic strip Mama's Boyz.

Sneed Collard III

With a background in biology, Collard introduces aspects of the natural world to children in a way that encourages them to see science as an integrated part of their lives. Our video interview with Sneed Collard ›

Christopher Paul Curtis

The award-winning Curtis delivers fresh, memorable characters who bring history to life in a way that's relevant for young readers. Our video interview with Christopher Paul Curtis ›

Kate DiCamillo

DiCamillo beautifully crafts sensitive, often funny books woven with themes of hope and belief. Our video interview with Kate DiCamillo ›

Virginia Hamilton

Recipient of every major award in youth literature, revered author Hamilton celebrated the African American experience in her sophisticated, engaging picture books, folktales, mysteries, science fiction, realistic novels, and biographies.

Varian Johnson

Johnson, who writes rich, well-developed characters, wants to "see kids of color being the stars of all different types of stories."

Erin Entrada Kelly

Award-winning author Kelly gives voice to quiet characters as she explores coming of age with sensitivity and honesty, dealing with issues such as bullying, building friendships, and feeling like an outsider. Our video interview with Erin Entrada Kelly ›

Lois Lowry

From subtle, light-hearted stories to books dealing with serious and complex topics, the award-winning Lowry has written such a wide range of books that her body of work cannot easily be categorized. Our video interview with Lois Lowry ›

David Macaulay

Award-winning artist Macaulay, who trained as an architect, laces his informational titles with humor, brings gracefulness and clarity to how things work, and invites readers to stretch their minds.

Walter Dean Myers

Myers portrayed authentic views of African Americans in gripping novels for young adults and poetic picture book tributes which were often illustrated by his son, Christopher Myers. Our video interview with Walter Dean Myers ›

Sy Montgomery

Linda Sue Park

Katherine Paterson

With sensitive, realistic expressions of childhood emotions, Paterson tackles challenging subjects such as sibling rivalry, troubled children, and even death in her middle grade novels. Our video interview with Katherine Paterson ›

Jason Reynolds

Reynolds writes masterful novels and poetry for young adult and middle-grade readers with intention to make Black children and teenagers feel seen in real life as well as in books.

Pam Muñoz Ryan

In both her picture books and novels, Ryan often features daring female protagonists who defy the societal conventions of their time. Our video interview with Pam Muñoz Ryan ›

Brian Selznick

Selznick explores all kinds of different ways that words and pictures interact in the books he creates, marrying intricate pencil illustrations with fascinating and accessible narrative. Our video interview with Brian Selznick ›

Cynthia Leitich Smith

Smith, who is also the author-curator of Heartdrum, a Native-focused imprint at Harper Children's Books, writes both realistic contemporary stories and fantastical narratives. Our video interview with Cynthia Leitich Smith ›

Gary Soto

Poet, novelist, and memoirist Soto deals with the realities of growing up in Mexican American communities in his works.

Mildred Taylor

In her saga of the Logan family, award-winning author Taylor explores family ties and racism faced by African Americans in the rural South before the civil rights movement.

Raina Telgemeier

Many of Telgemeier's graphic novels are autobiographical and deeply personal, exploring her own family life and challenges she faced growing up. Our video interview with Raina Telgemeier ›

Renée Watson

Watson, who writes for all ages of young readers, centers her work around the experiences of Black girls and women, and explores themes of home, identity, and the intersections of race, class, and gender.

Rita Williams-Garcia

Williams-Garcia writes picture books for young readers and novels for young adults and middle grade readers that are often rooted in recent American history and brim with authentic voices of young people. Our video interview with Rita Williams-Garcia ›

Gene Luen Yang

A former teacher who served as the fifth National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, Yang writes, and sometimes draws, comic books and graphic novels. Our video interview with Gene Luen Yang ›

Kelly Yang

Yang's experiences as an immigrant growing up in California shape the themes of family and community in her rich and engaging stories.

Laurence Yep

Yep writes books that draw from his Chinese American background yet speak to common feelings and experiences. Our video interview with Laurence Yep ›

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100 Children's Authors and Illustrators Everyone Should Know

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Meet 100 wonderful authors and illustrators who create beautiful and timeless books for children, contributing fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and poetry to our bookshelves. We hope you discover some new books and learn about the folks who brought them to life.

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Study finds 7 school library characteristics linked to student achievement – Library Research Service

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Study finds 7 school library characteristics linked to student achievement – Library Research Service

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A study linking school libraries to student achievement. 7 key characteristics explained.

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School Library Journal recently reported on the newest statewide study on the impact of school libraries for student success, commissioned by the South Carolina Association of School Librarians ( SCASL). While this now marks more than a dozen states that have conducted studies showing a link between school library programs and student achievement, this study was the first to show school library's contribution through test results for specific English language arts (ELA) and writing standards.

In South Carolina in 2012-2013, 7 school library characteristics were linked to student achievement, even when controlling for factors such as gender, race/ethnicity, disability, and free or reduced meal eligibility. Those characteristics are: 1) library staffing, 2) total library expenditures, 3) librarian hours spent on teaching activities, 4) circulation of library materials, 5) size of collection, 6) availability of computers, and 7) number of group visits to the library.

While an increase in each of these areas was positively correlated with better test scores and strengths in standards that were available for this study, a few findings stood out above the rest. First, students saw the most benefits when their school librarian spent at least 20 hours a week collaborating with instructors on teaching activities. Second, although ebooks are not yet widespread in South Carolina school libraries (with a median of 40 titles), students at schools with larger print and ebook collections were more likely to show strengths on writing standards. This was especially true for poor students and students eligible for meal subsidy. Third, while all students were positively impacted by access to computers, this was especially true for males, Hispanics, those with limited English and eligibility for meal subsidy.

Based on this study and others like it, the trend is clear - school libraries and the librarians who lead them are making a difference in education.

You can get more information about other school library impact studies conducted in Colorado and across the county here. A more detailed report on the South Carolina study can also be found here.
Note: This post is part of our series, "The LRS Number." In this series, we highlight statistics that help tell the story of the 21st-century library.

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Study finds 7 school library characteristics linked to student achievement

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School Library Journal recently reported on the newest statewide study on the impact of school libraries for student success, commissioned by the South Carolina Association of School Librarians ( SCASL).

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Selection & Reconsideration Policy Toolkit for Public, School, & Academic Libraries | Tools, Publications & Resources

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Selection & Reconsideration Policy Toolkit for Public, School, & Academic Libraries | Tools, Publications & Resources

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ALA's selection policy toolkit, with links to helpful information about creating policies and support with book challenges.

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DESE Rubric - Massachusetts School Library Association

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DESE Rubric - Massachusetts School Library Association

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This website links to the DESE rubric for MSLA, a good place to check in with now and then to recall standards.

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This resource document describes practice that is common to school libraries in general. The task force acknowledges that the nature of the job varies according to school culture, funding and staffing levels, grade levels, and fixed vs. flexible school scheduling. The responsibilities of school librarians to whom this resource document may be applied will vary. Librarians and evaluators both should agree together on elements that have high priority in given environments.

​

As a final note, it is worthwhile to emphasize that this resource document reflects the fact while teaching is one important role of school librarians, effective library programs rely on successful school librarian performance in multiple areas:

learning and teaching

information access, including collection development

program administration and library management

technology leadership

collaboration with school community

support of school community

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This resource document describes practice that is common to school libraries in general. The task force acknowledges that the nature of the job varies according to school culture, funding and staffing levels, grade levels, and fixed vs. flexible school scheduling. The responsibilities of school librarians to whom this resource document may be applied will vary.

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Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12 | NSTA

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Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12 | NSTA

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National Science Teachers Association's top picks for Science and STEM

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Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12

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NSTA, in conjunction with the Children’s Book Council, is pleased to announce the list of Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students. Representing the best science trade books published in 2025 for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, the books featured on the list include captivating stories, compelling characters, and beautiful illustrations.

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Smithsonian Learning Lab: Discover, Create, Share

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Smithsonian Learning Lab: Discover, Create, Share

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Use the Learning Lab to access a wide range of museum resources, find age-appropriate material, enhance lessons.

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Smithsonian

Learning Lab

Discover the digital education platform that connects people to Smithsonian objects, resources, and stories.

Collections by Grade

Explore some of our most popular Learning Lab Collections. Use them as a springboard to continue your exploration of the many collections available on the site.

Talk with Me!
Learn about your community and neighborhood. In this Toolkit, leaners explore different homes, shops, and people in your neighborhood and have fun with related activities.

Talk with Me Toolkits provide you with chances to talk with your children to improve thinking, vocabulary, and language development. Talking with your child is great-and research shows that the quality of words children hear matters more than how much you talk.

Talk with Me Toolkits give you ideas to begin conversations that are organized around a theme. The Toolkits feature videos, photographs, paintings, and artworks along with questions to talk about with your child. At the end of each toolkit there are more activities to do and books to read together. Go through this toolkit with your child and see how many topics there are to talk about!
This toolkit was adapted with a grant from the Institute for Museum and Library Services.

Links to third-party websites and videos are included in this Toolkit for informational purposes only. They do not indicate the Smithsonian's endorsement, sponsorship of, or affiliation with the third party or content of the linked site, including any advertisements that might be posted.

Learn More

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

What inspires you? Get to know Alma Thomas, (b. Columbus, Georgia; lived and worked in Washington, DC, 1891-1978), an American artist and educator known for her signature painting style using bright colors and patterns inspired by nature. She became a full-time artist late in her life. Born in a time of horses and buggies, she lived through big advancements in technology, such as the space race and moon landing. Her art was inspired by the nature she saw outside her home studio, and awe for the exploration of our vast universe.
Get To Know Alma Thomas Use it in the classroom to teach:
is part of the Hirshhorn KIDS About the Artist series. About the Artist biographies are designed for kids under age 12. Modern and contemporary artists' lives reflect recent human history and events. Sharing these life stories and artworks can help kids see their own potential and better understand the world and their place in it. It is our goal to inspire future generations of artists, makers, and creative problem solvers-sharing artists stories is one way Hirshhorn KIDS realize this goal.
Art classroom: Color Theory, Pattern

Language Arts classroom: Biography

Social Studies classroom: 20th century

Learn More

National Museum of American History

In this playlist you will learn about how three of the first presidents shaped the executive branch of the United States government.

Start by clicking on the first tile in the upper left hand corner. Then move through the playlist by clicking on the ">" symbol at the bottom of the page. Look for the information and paperclip icons to provide more information about selected resources. There are 34 tiles in this collection.

Learn More

Educator Programs

Cultivating Learning is a professional development series where Smithsonian educators model teaching techniques for using digital museum resources to support student learning. This year's series celebrates America at 250. Programs are free and accessible to anyone.

Wednesday, April 15, 4:00 PM EST

Join Phoebe Sherman of the National Postal Museum to explore how postage stamps can be used in the classroom to encourage civic awareness and engagement. We'll examine how stamps can spark curiosity and deepen understanding of civics, American history, national identity, and commemoration by using thinking routines that focus on both subject matter and artistic design. You'll see how these approaches come to life with students and leave with classroom-ready resources and fresh ideas for incorporating postage stamps into your teaching practice.

Watch

Wednesday, May 20, 4:00 PM EST

Join Nyssa Buning of the National Museum of American History's Spark!Lab and Carol O'Donnell of the Smithsonian Science Education Center to explore strategies for cultivating an inventive mindset in your students. We'll discuss the history of STEAM innovation in America and try an open-ended invention challenge that uses object-based learning techniques to encourage creative problem solving and support curiosity and perseverance, skills essential to inventors throughout history. You'll leave with a set of facilitation tools to support students as they develop their own inventive identity and become future problem-solvers. You'll also receive access to a newly released e-book from the Smithsonian Science Education Center, STEAM Innovation: Celebrating Our Nation's 250 Years.

Register

Wednesday, June 17, 4:00 PM EST

As America turns 250 in 2026, young people are writing its next chapter. Join a group of educators who apply interdisciplinary approaches to learning to engage young people in civic dialogue tied to their communities.

Register

What will you find in the Smithsonian Learning Lab?

Resources

Millions of Smithsonian digital images, recordings, texts, and videos in history, art and culture, and the sciences

Collections

Thousands of examples of resources organized and structured for teaching and learning by educators and subject experts

Resources

Millions of Smithsonian digital images, recordings, texts, and videos in history, art and culture, and the sciences

Collections

Thousands of examples of resources organized and structured for teaching and learning by educators and subject experts

Browse individual resources by type

Browse model collections on different topics

Tips

Tips

Create collections of resources to engage learners, or freely adapt ones already made by Learning Lab users like you.

Use Learning Lab tools to customize and enhance your collections.

Browse ready-to-use model collections by educational use

Browse ready-to-use model collections by learning strategy or theme

Tips

Tips

Subscribe to our Bright Ideas newsletter

To learn more about the Smithsonian Learning Lab and to read about strategies, approaches, new features, and more, subscribe to the Bright Ideas newsletter. We'll be sending out a new issue every few weeks.

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Smithsonian Learning Lab: Discover, Create, Share

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Smithsonian Learning Lab Discover the digital education platform that connects people to Smithsonian objects, resources, and stories. Explore some of our most popular Learning Lab Collections. Use them as a springboard to continue your exploration of the many collections available on the site. Talk with Me! Learn about your community and neighborhood.

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Texas Public Libraries: Economic Benefits and Return on Investment | TSLAC

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Texas Public Libraries: Economic Benefits and Return on Investment | TSLAC

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A study that finds a $4.64 return on $1.00 investment.

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Public libraries in the State of Texas provide significant economic benefits for their communities. Collectively, in FY2015, Texas public libraries were found to provide $2.628 billion in benefits while costing $566 million, a return on investment of $4.64 for each dollar.

A data-intensive research design was developed to document and to quantify these economic benefits. Extensive databases from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) were used in conjunction with the input-out economic modeling software, IMPLAN. Based on the IMPLAN model, which analyzed public libraries purely as business and organizational entities, libraries produced $976 million in economic activity. Further, in FY2015, more than 11,000 jobs in Texas were dependent on public library expenditures.

Download the report in PDF format by clicking on the links below. The report is available in its entirety or by chapter.
Executive Summary Chapter I - Introduction: Scope, Methodology, Limitations Chapter II - Key Financial Statistics of Texas Public Libraries Chapter III - Market Values of Library Services Chapter IV - Summary of Quantifiable Economic Impacts Appendices
This study was funded with Library Services and Technology Act funds administered by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission through a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Media Contacts

For inquiries regarding research methodology, contact Dr. James Jarrett at the Bureau of Business Research: jj@ic2.utexas.edu

For general inquiries, contact the Public Information Office at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission: pio@tsl.texas.gov

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Texas Public Libraries: Economic Benefits and Return on Investment

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Texas Public Libraries: Economic Benefits and Return on Investment Prepared for the Texas State Library and Archives Commission by the Bureau of Business Research IC² Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, January 2017 Public libraries in the State of Texas provide significant economic benefits for their communities.

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Professional, Technical Writing Introduction - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University

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Professional, Technical Writing Introduction - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University

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A great site for creating citations in all formats, as well as in text citations.

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Suggested Resources
Style Guide Overview MLA Guide APA Guide Chicago Guide OWL Exercises
This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

These OWL resources will help you conduct research and compose documents for the workplace, such as memoranda and business letters. This section also includes resources for writing report and scientific abstracts.

In this section

Subsections

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

These OWL resources will help you conduct research and compose documents for the workplace, such as memoranda and business letters. This section also includes resources for writing report and scientific abstracts.

In this section

Subsections

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Style Guide Overview MLA Guide APA Guide Chicago Guide OWL Exercises This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice. Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved.

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TitleWise - How to upload collection for analysis

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TitleWise - How to upload collection for analysis

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You Tube Video - walks through how to start with Follet, into TitleWave and then use TitleWise for analysis.

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To upload your collection for analysis - TitleWise

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American Association of School Librarians (AASL) | A division of the American Library Association

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American Association of School Librarians (AASL) | A division of the American Library Association

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The AASL Shared Foundations! This site links to advocacy information, awards, conferences, publications, standards and AASL Chapters.

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American Association of School Librarians (AASL)

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American Association of School Librarians (AASL)

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A Division of the American Library Association

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Massachusetts School Library Association - Massachusetts School Library Association

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Massachusetts School Library Association - Massachusetts School Library Association

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MSLA provides information on advocacy, resources, awards, conferences, newsletter and membership.

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THINGS TO DO:

WMS Podcasts: Socially Connected, Physically Distant

"...a way to stay socially connected even though WILSON MIDDLE SCHOOL, NATICK
​
​we are physically distanced."

Librarian Luke Steere and the students in the Library Advisory Committee used podcasting as an innovative way to build community and to reach out to students and teachers when the school pivoted to remote learning. Click here to read how the students under the supervision of Luke created a highly successful series of podcasts and the lessons they learned along the way.

Created by the ​The Special Commission on School Library Services ​in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Legislature in
July 2014
To investigate ​equity of access to school library programs in our public schools.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ​
Salem State University portal
​ The Massachusetts School Library Study: Equity and Access for Students in the Commonwealth
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Visit the
MSLA ADVOCACY pages

MSLA ​is an affiliate ​of AASL

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WMS Podcasts: Socially Connected, Physically Distant "...a way to stay socially connected even though WILSON MIDDLE SCHOOL, NATICK ​ ​we are physically distanced." Librarian Luke Steere and the students in the Library Advisory Committee used podcasting as an innovative way to build community and to reach out to students and teachers when the school pivoted to remote learning.

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Creating a Weeding Report using TitleWise - YouTube

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Creating a Weeding Report using TitleWise - YouTube

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Details the steps for making weeding lists based on age from TitleWise analysis

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Creating a Weeding Report using TitleWise

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Details use of Titlewave in developing the collection.

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TitleWise's User's Guide (pdf) and many features available

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How to weed using MUSTIE

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Current Curriculum Frameworks - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

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Current Curriculum Frameworks - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

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Find DESE curriculum frameworks and MA learning standards.

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Instructional Support

The Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks provide teachers, students and families with clear and shared expectations for what all students should know and be able to do at the end of each year. They represent a promise of equitable education for all students. They formalize the expectation that all students in the Commonwealth have access to the same academic content, regardless of their zip code, background, or abilities.

Contact Us

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906

Voice: (781) 338-3000
TTY: (800) 439-2370

Directions
Disclaimer: A reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

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massachusetts department of elementary and secondary education

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Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

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Current Curriculum Frameworks - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

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The goal of the Massachusetts public K-12 education system is to prepare all students for success after high school. Massachusetts public school students are leading the nation in reading and math and are at the top internationally in reading, science, and math according to the national NAEP and international PISA assessments.

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Reopening Your Library - Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Massachusetts Libraries - LibGuides at Massachusetts Library System, Inc.

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Reopening Your Library - Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Massachusetts Libraries - LibGuides at Massachusetts Library System, Inc.

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Sample re-opening plans, pandemic planning, restoration.

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Skip to Main Content

It looks like you're using Internet Explorer 11 or older. This website works best with modern browsers such as the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. If you continue with this browser, you may see unexpected results.

On this page:

Related resource:

MBLC Library Information

All MA Libraries -- If there is a change in your hours, please update the information in the MBLC Library Directory, which is accessible to the public.

From the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Sample Library Reopening Plans from 2020

Disclaimer

Resources provided are for informational purposes only, not specifically endorsed by MLS, and not meant to substitute for advice from a medical or public health professional.

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LibGuides: Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Massachusetts Libraries: Reopening Your Library

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Skip to Main Content It looks like you're using Internet Explorer 11 or older. This website works best with modern browsers such as the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. If you continue with this browser, you may see unexpected results.

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Contains links to book lists and resources for children and families dealing with challenges and crisis.

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Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC)

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Children’s library professionals have access to information, resources, and community partnerships that contribute to the development of materials, programs, and services that support families in their library communities. In turn, ALSC supports library professionals in these efforts by providing th…

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We Need Diverse Books – diversebooks.org

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We Need Diverse Books – diversebooks.org

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Excellent lists of diverse books, as well as a great resource for finding quality books that represent differences.

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A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, WNDB aims to create a world where every reader can find themselves in the pages of a book. To reach this goal, we've created programs to mentor diverse writers and illustrators, support diverse publishing professionals, and provide books to classrooms nationwide.

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Notable Books for a Global Society - booklists by year

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​Sharuko: El Arqueólogo Peruano/Peruvian Archaeologist Julio C. Tello
By Monica Brown Illus. Elisa Chavarri
Lee & Low Books/Children's Book Press

Woke: A Young Poet's Call to Justice
By Mahogany L. Browne, Elizabeth Acevedo, and Olivia Gatwood Illus. Theodore Taylor III
Macmillan/Roaring Brook Press

Finish the Fight: The Brave and Revolutionary Women who Fought for the Right to Vote
By Veronica Chambers and the staff of The New York Times
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt/Versify

By Tami Charles Illus. Bryan Collier
Scholastic/Orchard Books

By Traci Chee
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt/HMH Books

By Ernesto Cisneros
HarperCollins/Quill Tree Books

The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne
By Lesa Cline-Ransome Illus. John Parra
Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read
By Rita Lorraine Hubbard Illus. Oge Mora
Penguin Random House/ Random House/Schwartz & Wade Books

The Talk: Conversations About Race, Love & Truth
By Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson (Eds.)
Penguin Random House/ Random House/Crown

When Stars are Scattered
By Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed Illus. Victoria Jamieson; Color by Iman Geddy
Penguin Random House/Penguin for Young Readers/Dial Books

By Kim Johnson
Penguin Random House/Random House

The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person
By Frederick Joseph
Candlewick Press

The Arabic Quilt: An Immigrant Story
By Aya Khalil
Illus. Anait Semirdzhyan Tilbury House

The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins & Her New Deal for America
By Kathleen Krull Illus. Alexandra Bye
Simon & Schuster/Atheneum Books

Show Me a Sign
By Ann Clare LeZotte Scholastic/Scholastic Press

We are Water Protectors
By Carole Lindstrom Illus. Michaela Goade
Macmillan/Roaring Brook Press

By Trung Le Nguyen
Penguin Random House/RH Graphic

The Eagle Huntress: The True Story of the Girl who Soared beyond Expectations
By Aisholpan Nurgiav with Liz Welch Hachette
Book Group/Little/Brown

Loretta Little Looks Back: Three Voices Go Tell It
By Andrea Davis Pinkney Illus. Brian Pinkney
Hachette Book Group/Little, Brown

She was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm
By Katheryn Russell-Brown Illus. Eric Velasquez
Lee & Low Books

By Aida Salazar
Scholastic/ Scholastic Press

By Karim Shamsi-Basha and Irene Latham Illus. Yuko Shimizu
Penguin Random House/Penguin for Young Readers/G. P. Putnam's Sons

Fauja Singh Keeps Going: The True Story of the Oldest Person to Ever Run a Marathon
By Simran Jeet Singh Illus. Baljinder Kaur
Penguin Random House/Penguin for Young Readers/Kokila

The Teachers March!: How Selma's Teachers Changed History
By Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace Illus. Charly Palmer
Boyds Mill & Kane/Calkins Creek

By Gene Luen Yang
​Macmillan/First Second

With the Fire on High
By Elizabeth Acevedo
Harper Collins/Harper Teen

The Undefeated
By Kwame Alexander
Illus. by Kadir Nelson
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Orange for the Sunsets
By Tina Athaide
Harper Collins/Katherine Tegen Books

Feed Your Mind: A Story of August Wilson
By Jen Bryant
Illus. Cannaday Chapman
Abrams/Abrams Books for Young Readers

Martin & Anne, The Kindred Spirits of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Anne Frank
By Nancy Churnin
Illus. by Yevgenia Nayberg
Creston Books

New Kid
By Jerry Craft
Harper Collins/Harper

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
By Anika Aldamuy Denise
Illus. by Paola Escobar
Harper Collins/Harper

Dreams from Many Rivers
By Margarita Engle
Illus. Beatriz Gutierrez Hernandez
Macmillan/Henry Holt/ Godwin Books

Todos Iquales / All Equal: Un corridor de Lemon Grove/ A Ballad of Lemon Grove
By Christy Hale
Lee & Low Books/Children's Books Press

Downstairs Girl
By Stacey Lee
Penguin Random House/Penguin/G.P. Putnam's Sons

Paper Son: The Inspiring Story of Tyrus Wong, Immigrant and Artist
By Julie Leung
Illus. Chris Sasaki
Penguin Random House/Random House/Schwartz & Wade

The Book Rescuer: How a Mensch from Massachusetts Saved Yiddish Literature for Generations to Come
By Sue Macy
Illus. Stacy Innerst
Simon & Schuster/A Paula Wiseman Book

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story
By Kevin Noble Maillard
Illus. by Juana Martinez-Neal
Roaring Brook Press

Indian No More
By Charlene Willing McManis with Traci Sorell
Lee & Low Books/Tu Books

Lubna and Pebble
By Wendy Meddour
Illus. by Daniel Egenėus
Penguin Random House/Random House/Dial Books

Under the Broken Sky
By Mariko Nagai
Henry Holt/Christy Ottaviano Books

Thanku: Poems of Gratitude
By Miranda Paul (Ed.)
Illus. by Marlena Myles
Lerner/Millbrook Press

Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet
By Elizabeth Rusch
Illus. by Teresa Martinez
Charlesbridge

The Moon Within
By Aida Salazar
Scholastic/Arthur A. Levine Books

At the Mountain's Base
By Traci Sorell
Illus. Weshoyot Alvitre
Penguin Random House/Penguin/Kokila WESHOYOT ALVITRE

Room on Our Rock
By Kate and Jol Temple
Illus. by Terri Rose Baynton
Kane Miller

Soldier for Equality: Josė de la Luz Sáenz and the Great War
By Duncan Tonatiuh
Abrams/Abrams Books for Young Readers

The Bridge Home
By Padma Venkatraman
Penguin Random House/Nancy Paulsen Books

The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen
Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border
By Juan Pablo Villalobos
Macmillan/Farrar Straus Giroux

Other Words for Home
By Jasmine Warga
Harper Collins/Balzer + Bray

What Do You Do With A Voice Like That?
By Chris Barton
Illus. by Ekua Holmes
Beach Lane Books

Counting on Katherine
By Helene Becker
Illus. by Dow Phumiruk
Henry Holt/Christy Ottaviano

Finding Langston
By Lesa Cline-Ransome
Holiday House

The Day War Came
By Nicola Davies
Illus. by Rebecca Cobb
Candlewick Press

Love
By Matt de la Peña
Illus. by Loren Long
Penguin Random House/
G.P. Putnam's Sons

The Crossroads
By Alexandra Diaz
Simon Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

The War Outside
By Monica Hesse
Little, Brown

The Night Diary
By Veera HIranandani
Penguin Group/Dial

Write On, Irving Berlin!
By Leslie Kimmelman
Illus. by David C. Gardner
Sleeping Bear Press

Saffron Ice Cream
By Rashin Kheiriyeh
Scholastic/Arthur A. Levine Books

Drawn Together
By Minh Lê
Illus. by Dan Santat
Disney/Hyperion

Alma and How She Got Her Name
By Juana Martinez-Neal
Candlewick Press

La Frontera: El v iaje con papá-My Journey with Papa
By Deborah Mills and Alfredo Alva
Illus. by Claudia Navarro
Barefoot Books

Dreamers
By Yuyi Morales
Neal Porter Books

All Are Welcome
By Alexandra Penfold
Illus. by Suzanne Kaufman
Random House/Alfred A. Knopf Books

Ghost Boys
By Jewell Parker Rhodes
Little, Brown

Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein
By Jennifer Roy
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Amal Unbound
By Aisha Saeed
Penguin Random House/
Nancy Paulsen Books

Too Young to Escape: A Vietnamese Girl Waits to be Reunited with Her Family
By Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch
and Van Ho
Pajama Press

The Cardboard Kingdom
By Chad Sell
Random House/Alfred A. Knopf/
Borzoi Books

We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
By Traci Sorell
Illus. by Frané Lessac
Charlesbridge

Mommy's Khimar
By Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
Illus. by Ebony Glenn
Simon & Schuster/Salaam Reads

The Prince and the Dressmaker
By Jen Wang
Roaring Brook Press/First Second

The Day You Begin
By Jacqueline Woodson
Illus. by Rafael López
Penguin Random House/
Nancy Paulsen Books

OUT OF WONDER: POEMS CELEBRATING POETS
Edited by Kwame Alexander
Illus. by Ekua Holmes
Candlewick

WHY AM I ME?
By Paige Britt, Sean Qualls, and Selina Alko
Scholastic

WISHTREE
By Katherine Applegate
Illus. by Charles Santoso
Feiwel & Friends

WALKING WITH MISS MILLIE
By Tamara Bundy
Penguin Group /Nancy Paulsen Books

LUCKY BROKEN GIRL
By Ruth Beha
Penguin Group/Nancy Paulsen Books

#NOT YOUR PRINCESS: Voices of Native American Women
Edited by Lisa Charleyboy and Mary Beth Leatherdale
Annick Press

STOLEN WORDS
By Melanie Florence
Illus. by Gabrielle Grimard
Second Story Press

I LOVE MY PURSE
By Belle DeMont
Illus. by Sonja Wimmer
Annick Press

AN UNINTERRUPTED VIEW OF THE SKY
By Melanie Crowder
Penguin Group/Philomel

MY BEAUTIFUL BIRDS
By Suzanne Del Rizzo
Pajama Press

LETTERS TO A PRISONER
By Jacques Goldskyn
Owlkids Books

HER RIGHT FOOT
By Dave Eggers
Illus. by Shawn Harris
Chronicle Books

YO SOY MUSLIM: A FATHER'S LETTER TO HIS DAUGHTER
By Mark Gonzalez
Illus. by Mehrdokht Amini
Simon & Schuster Books

STORMY SEAS: STORIES OF YOUNG BOAT REFUGEES
By Mary Beth Leatherdale and Eleanor Shakespeare
Annick Press

ONE LAST WORD
By Nikki Grimes
Bloomsbury

TRELL
By Dick Lehr
Candlewick Press

DREAMLAND BURNING
By Jennifer Latham
Little Brown

WHERE WILL I LIVE?
By Rosemary McCarney
Second Story Press

FLYING LESSONS
Edited by Ellen Oh
Crown

SILENT DAYS, SILENT DREAMS
By Allen Say

LONG WAY DOWN
By Jason Reynolds
Simon & Schuster

THE 57 BUS
By Dashka Slater
Farrar, Strauss, Giroux

MAYA LIN: THINKING WITH HER HANDS
By Susan Goldman Rubin
Chronicle Books

PIECING ME TOGETHER
by Renee Watson
Bloomsbury​

Balcony on the Moon
By Ibtisam Barakat
Farrar, Straus and Giroux/Macmillan
Talking Leaves
By Joseph Bruchac
Dial Books
Freedom Over Me
by Don Brown
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Watched: Someone Is Always Watching
By Marina Budhos
Wendy Lamb Books
Missing Nimama
By Melanie Florence
Illus. by Francois Thisdale
Clockwise Press
The Bone Sparrow
By Zana Fraillon
Disney Hyperion
The Tree in the Courtyard
By Jeff Gottesfeld
Illus. by Peter McCarty
Knopf Books for Young Readers
Vietnam: A History of the War
By Russell Freedman
Holiday House
Garvey's Choice
By Nikki Grimes
WordSong
Girl in the Blue Coat
By Monica Hesse
Little, Brown
Ada's Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay
By Susan Hood
Illus. by Sally Wern
Comport Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

By Jung Jin-Ho
Holiday House
Every Falling Star
By Sungju Lee
Harry N. Abrams
I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark
By Debbie Levy
Illus. by Elizabeth Baddeley
Simon & Schuster
A Long Pitch Home
By Natalie Dias Lorenzi
Charlesbridge
Juana & Lucas
By Juana Medina
Candlewick Press
This Land Is Our Land: A History of America
By Linda Barrett Osborne
Abrams
A Poem for Peter: The Story of Ezra Jack Keats and the Creation of the Snowy Day
By Andrea Davis Pinkney
Illus. by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher
Viking Books for Young Readers
Towers Falling
By Jewell Parker Rhodes
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Stepping Stones: A Refugee Family's Journey
By Margriet Ruurs
Illus. by Nizar Badr
Orca Press
Salt to the Sea
By Ruda Sepatis
Philomel Books
Sachiko: A Nagasaki Bomb Survivor's Story
By Caren Stelson
Lerner/Carolrhoda
The Sound of All Things
By Myron Uhlberg
Illus. by Ted Papoulas
Peachtree Publishers
Freedom in Congo Square
By Carole Boston Weatherford
Illus. by R. Gregory Christie
Little bee books
Esquivel! Space-Age Sound Artist
by Susan Wood
Illus. by Duncan Tonatiuh
Charlesbrid

AUDACITY
by Melanie Crowder
Penguin Random House
BREAKTHROUGH: HOW THREE PEOPLE SAVED "BLUE BABIES" AND CHANGED MEDICINE FOREVER
by Jim Murphy
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
DROWNED CITY: HURRICANE KATRINA & NEW ORLEANS
by Don Brown
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
ORBITING JUPITER
by Gary B. Schmidt
Clarion Books
RED
by Jan De Kinder; Translated by Laura Watkinson
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
DRUM DREAM GIRL: HOW ONE GIRL'S COURAGE CHANGED MUSIC
by Margarita Engle; illus. by Rafael López
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
MY STORY, MY DANCE: ROBERT BATTLE'S JOURNEY TO ALVIN AILEY
by Lesa Cline-Ransome; illus. by James E. Ransome
Simon & Schuster
ECHO
by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Scholastic Press
FUNNY BONES: POSADA AND HIS DAY OF THE DEAD CALAVERAS
by Duncan Tonatiuh
Harry N. Abrams
GAME CHANGER: JOHN McCLENDON AND THE SECRET GAME
by John Coy; illus. by Randy DuBurke
Carolrhoda Books
GEORGE
by Alex Gino
Scholastic
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF CRAZY HORSE
By Joseph Marshall III, illustrated by Jim Yellowhawk
Abrams: Amulet
JUNA'S JAR
by Jane Bahk; Illlus. By Felicia Hoshino.
Lee & Low
LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET
by Matt De La Peña
Penguin/G.P. Putnam
MAYA'S BLANKET/LE MANTA DE MAYA
by Monica Brown; Illus. by David Diaz
Lee & Low
RUBY ON THE OUTSIDE
by Nora Raleigh Baskin
Simon & Schuster
SITTING BULL: LAKOTA WARRIOR AND DEFENDER OF HIS PEOPLE
by S. D. Nelson
Abrams
STELLA BY STARLIGHT
by Sharon Draper
Simon & Schuster
STONE ANGEL
by Jane Yolen; illus. by Katie May Green
Philomel
THE POETRY FRIDAY ANTHOLOGY FOR CELEBRATIONS
Sylvia Vardell & Janet Wong, Eds.
Pomelo Books
TIGER BOY
by Mitali Perkins
Charlesbridge
TWO WHITE RABBITS
by Jairo Buitrago, illus. by Rafael Yockteng; trans. by Elisa Amado
Groundwood
TUCKY JO AND LITTLE HEART
by Patricia Polacco
Simon & Schuster
WANGARI MAATHAI: THE WOMAN WHO PLANTED MILLIONS OF TREES
by Franck Prévot; illus. by Aurélia Fronty
Charlesbridge
VOICE OF FREEDOM: FANNIE LOU HAMER: THE SPIRIT OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT
by Carol Boston Weatherford; Illus. by Ekua Holmes
Candlewick

I Lived on Butterfly Hill
by Marjorie Agosín
Trans. by E.M. O'Connor; illus. by Lee White
Simon & Schuster/Atheneum
El Deafo
by Cece Bell
Harry N. Abrams
Strike!: The Farm Workers Fight for Their Rights
by Larry Dane Brimner
Boyds Mills/Calkins Creek
Caminar
by Skila Brown
Candlewick
Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal
by Margarita Engle
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Angel Island: Gateway to Gold Mountain
by Russell Freedman
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt/Clarion
Grandfather Gandhi
by Arun Gandhi and Bethany Hegedus
Illus. by Evan Turk
Simon & Schuster/Atheneum
Beyond Magenta: Transgender Teens Speak Out
by Susan Kuklin
Candlewick
Harlem Hellfighters
by J. Patrick Lewis
Illus. by Gary Kelley
Creative Editions
Voices from the March on Washington
by J. Patrick Lewis & George Ella Lyon
Boyds Mills/WordSong
How It Went Down
by Kekla Magoon
Henry Holt
Migrant
by José Manuel Mateo
Illus. by Javier Martínez Pedro
Harry N. Abrams
The Turtle of Oman
by Naomi Shihab Nye
Harper Collins/Greenwillow
The Red Pencil
by Andrea Davis Pinkney
Illus. by Shane W. Evans
Little, Brown
This Day in June
by Gayle E. Pittman
Illus. by Kristyna Litten
APA/Magination
Little Melba and Her Big Trombone
by Katheryn Russell-Brown
Illus. by Frank Morrison
Lee & Low
Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez & her family's fight for desegregation
by Duncan Tonatiuh
Harry N. Abrams
House of Purple Cedar
by Tim Tingle
Cinco Puntos
Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin
by Chieri Uegaki
Illus. by Qin Leng
Kids Can Press
A Time to Dance
by Padma Venkatraman
Penguin/Nancy Paulsen
Like Water ON Stone
by Dana Walrath
Random House/Delacorte
Brown Girl Dreaming
by Jacqueline Woodson
Penguin/Nancy Paulsen
Arcady's Goal
by Eugene Yelchin
Henry Holt
Twenty-two Cents: Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank
by Paula Yoo
Illus. by Jamel Akib
Lee & Low

Fiction: Realistic & Fantasy
If I Ever Get Out of Here
by Gansworth Eric
Scholastic/Arthur A. Levine Books

The Vine Basket
by La Valley Josanne
Houghton Mif[lin Harcourt/Clarion Books

The Language Inside
by Thompson Holly
Random House/Delacorte

The Servant
by Sharafeddine Fatima
House of Anansi Press/Groundwood Books

The Milk of Birds
by Whitman Sylvia
Simon & Schuster/Atheneum

Historical Fiction
The Lightning Dreamer
by Engle Margarita
Houghton Mif[lin Harcourt/Harcourt

Salt: A Story of Friendship in a Time of War
by Frost Helen
Farrar Straus Giroux/Frances Foster Books

Nonfiction
Looks Like Daylight: Voices of Indigenous Kids
by Ellis Deborah
House of Anansi Press/Groundwood

Legends, Icons & Rebels: Music that Changed the World
by Robertson Robbie, Guerinot Jim, Robertson Sebastian, and Levine Jared
Tundra Books

Diego Rivera: An Artist for the People
by Rubin Susan Goldman
Abrams

Courage Has No Color: The True Story of the Triple Nickles, America's First Black Paratroopers
by Stone Tanya Lee
Candlewick Press

Why Do We Fight? ConWlict, War, and Peace
by Walker Niki
Owlkids

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop
by Hill Laban Carrick
Illus. Theodore Taylor III.
Roaring Brook

Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote: A Migrant's Tale
by Tonatiuh Duncan
Abrams

When Thunder Comes: Poems for Civil Rights Leaders
by Lewis J. Patrick
Illus. Jim Burke, R. Gregory Christie, Tonya Engel, John Parra, and Meilo So.
Chronicle Books

Graphic Novels
A game for swallows: To die, to leave, to return
by Zeina Abirached
Trans. Edward Gauvin
Minneapolis, MN: Lerner Publishing Group

Darkroom: A memoir in black and white
by Lila Quintero Weaver
Tuscaloosa, AL: The University of Alabama Press

Fiction: Realistic & Fantasy
My book of life by Angel
by Martine Leavitt
New York, NY: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux/MacMillan

Starry river of the sky
by Grace Lin
New York, NY: Little, Brown and Company

Red thread sisters
by Carol Antoinette Peacock
New York, NY: Viking/Penguin Young Readers

Historical Fiction
The Revolution of Evelyn Serrano
by Sonia Manzano
New York, NY: Scholastic

No crystal stair: A documentary novel of the life and work of Lewis Michaux, Harlem bookseller
by Vaunda Michaux Nelson
Illus. by Christie R. Gregory
Minneapolis: Carolrhoda Lab/Lerner

Shadow on the mountain: A novel inspired by the true adventures of a wartime spy
by Margi Preus
New York, NY: Amulet

The lynching of Louie Sam
by Elizabeth Stewart
Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Annick Press

Hope and tears: Ellis Island voices
by Gwenyth Swain
Honesdale, PA: Calkins Creek/Boyds Mills Press

Nonfiction
Kids of Kabul: Living bravely through a never-ending war
by Deborah Ellis
Toronto: Groundwood

We've got a job: The 1963 Birmingham children's march
by Cynthia Levinson
Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers

Hand in hand: Ten black men who changed America
by Andrea Davis Pinkney
New York, NY: Jump at the Sun Books/Disney

That mad game. Growing up in a war zone: An anthology of essays from around the globe
by J.L.Powers (Ed.)
El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press

Picturebooks
Ganesha's sweet tooth
by Sanjay Patel and Emily Haynes
Illus. by Sanjay Patel
San Francisco, CA: Chronicle

The stamp collector
by Jennifer Lanthier
Illus. by François Thisdale
Toronto, ON: Fitzhenry & Whiteside

Hands around the library: Protecting Egypt's treasured books
by Susan L. Roth and Karen Leggett Abouraya
Illus. by Susan L. Roth
New York, NY: Dial/The Penguin Group

Monsieur Marceau
by Linda Schubert
Illus. by Gerard Dubois
New York, NY: Roaring Brook Press/MacMillan

I lay my stitches down: Poems of American slavery
by Cynthia Grady
Illus. by Michele Wood
Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
​

While You Are Sleeping
Author & Illustrator: Durga Burnhard
Charlesbridge

Alicia Alonso: Prima Ballerina
Author: Carmine T. Bernier-Grand
Illustrator: Raul Colon
Marshall Cavendish

Five Thousand Years of Slavery
Author: Marjorie Gann and Janet Willen
Tundra

Beyond Bullets: A Photo Journal of Afghanistan
Author: Rafal Gerszak with Dawn Hunter
Annick Press

Peaceful Pieces: Poems and Quilts about Peace
Author: Anna Grossnickle Hines
Henry Holt

Which Side Are You On?
Author: George Ella Lyon
Illustrator: Christopher Cardinale
Cinco Puntos Press

The Mangrove Tree: Planting Trees to Feed Families
Author: Susan L. Roth & Cindy Trumbore
Illustrator: Susan L. Roth
Lee and Low

PICTURE BOOKS
Saltypie; A Choctaw journey from darkness into light
by Tim Tingle.
Illus. by Karen Clarkson.
Cinco Puntos Press

Seeds of Change: planting a path to peace
by Jen Cullerton Johnson
Lee and Low Books

Black Jack; the ballad of Jack Johnson
by Charles R. Smith, Jr.
Illus. by Shane W. Evans,
Roaring Brook Press

Fiction
8th Grade Super Zero
by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich.
Arthur A. Levine Books

Heart of a Samurai; based on the true story of Nakahama Manjiro.
by Margi Preus.
Amulet Books

Lost Boy, Lost Girl; escaping civil war in Sudan
by John Bul Dau.
National Geographic

They Called Themselves the KKK
by Susan Campbell Bartoletti.
Houghton Mifflin

Sugar Changed the World
by Marc Aronson and Marina Budhos.
Clarion Books

PICTURE BOOKS
14 Cows for America.
Carmen Agra Deedy in collaboration with Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah.
Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez.
Atlanta: Peachtree

NON-FICTION
After Gandhi; one hundred years of nonviolent resistance.
Anne Sibley O'Brien and Perry Edmond O'Brien
Charlesbridge

Cycle of Rice, Cycle of Life; a story of sustainable farming.
Jan Reynolds
NY: Lee & Low

Denied, Detained Deported; the dark side of American immigration.
Ann Bausum.
National Geographic

Every Human Has Rights. A Photographic Declaration for Kids.
National Geographic

Truce; the day the soldiers stopped fighting.
Jim Murphy
NY: Scholastic

Bad News for Outlaws; the remarkable life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal.
Vaunda Micheaux Nelson.
Illus. by R. Gregory Christie
Minneapolis: Carolghoda

Claudette Colvin; twice toward justice.
Phillip Hoose
NY: Melanie Kroupa ​

Poetry
Alarcon, Francisco X. (2008).
Animal poems of the Iguazu/Animalario del Iguazu.
Illustrated by Maya Christina Gonzalez.
San Francisco, CA: Children's Book Press.

Greenberg, Jan. (2008).
Side by side: New poems inspired by art from around the world.
New York: Abrams.

Bartoletti, Susan Campbell. (2008).
The boy who dared.
New York: Scholastic.

Realistic Fiction
Carter, Anne Laurel. (2008).
The shepherd's granddaughter.
Toronto: Groundwood Books.

Zenatti, Valerie. (2008).
A bottle in the Gaza Sea.
New York: Bloomsbury Children's Books.

Picturebooks

Fox, Mem. (2008).
Ten little fingers and ten little toes.
Illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.
New York: Harcourt.

Nonfiction (Includes Biography)
Bellward, Stacy. (2008).
Ethiopian voices: Tsion's life.
Photographs by Erlend Berge.
Brooklyn Park, MN: Amharic Kids.

Bolden, Tonya. (2008).
George Washington Carver.
Published in association with the Field Museum, Chicago. New York: Abrams.

D'Aluisio, Faith. (2008).
What the World Eats.
Photographs by Peter Menzel.
Berkeley, CA: Tricycle Press.

Kuklin, Susan. (2008).
No choirboy: Murder, violence, and teenagers on death row.
New York: Henry Holt.
Milway, Katie Smith (2008).

One hen: How one small loan made a big difference.
Illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes.
Toronto, ON: Kids Can Press.

Nelson, Kadir. (2008).
We are the ship: The story of Negro League baseball.
New York: Jump- at-the-Sun/Hyperion Books for Children.

Nivola, Claire A. (2008).
Planting the trees of Kenya: The story of Wangari Maathai.
New York: Frances Foster/Farrar, Straus & Giroux. ​

​Alexie, Sherman.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.
Art by Ellen Forney.
Boston: Little, Brown Young Readers, 2007.

Beah, Ishmael.
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier.
New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2007.

Compestine, Ying Chang.
Revolution is Not a Dinner Party.
New York: Henry Holt, 2007.

Fleischman, Paul.
Glass Slipper, Gold Sandal: A Worldwide Cinderella.
Illustrated by Julie Paschkis.
New York: Henry Holt, 2007.

Sis, Peter.
The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain.
New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 2007.

Stanton, Karen.
Papi's Gift.
Illustrated by Rene King Moreno.
Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills Press, 2007.

Strauss, Rochelle.
One Well: The Story of Water on Earth.
Illustrated by Rosemary Woods.
Toronto, ON: Kids Can Press, 2007.

Thompson, Lauren.
Ballerina Dreams: A True Story.
Photographs by James Estrin.
New York: Holtzbrink, 2007.

Williams, Karen Lynn & Mohammed, Khadra.
Four Feet, Two Sandals.
Illustrated by Doug Chayka.
Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2007.

Wise, Bill.
Louis Sockalexis: Native American Baseball Pioneer.
Illustrated by Bill Farnsworth.
New York: Lee & Low, 2007.

Boyne, John.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas.
New York: David Fickling, 2006.

Campoy, F. Isabel. & Ada, Alma F.
Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Collection.
Illustrated by Felipe Davalos, Viva Escriva, Susan Guevara, Leyla Torres.
New York: Atheneum, 2006.

Diakite, Penda.
I Lost My Tooth in Africa.
Illustrated by Bab Wague Diakite.
New York: Scholastic, 2006.

Draper, Sharon. Copper Sun. New York: Atheneum, 2006.

Freedman, Russell.
Freedom Walkers: The Story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
New York: Holiday House, 2006.

Greenfield, Eloise.
When the Horses Ride By.
Illustrated by Jan Spivey Gilchrist.
New York: Lee & Low, 2006.

Hopkinson, Deborah.
Up Before Daybreak: Cotton and People in America.
New York: Scholastic, 2006.

Kessler, Cristina.
Best Beekeeper of Lalibela: A Tale from Africa.
Illustrated by Leonard Jenkins.
New York: Holiday House, 2006.

Lee-Tai, Amy.
A Place Where Sunflowers Grow.
Illustrated by Felicia Hoshino.
San Francisco, CA: Children's Book Press, 2006.

McCutcheon, John.
Christmas in the Trenches.
Illustrated by Henri Sorensen.
Atlanta, GA: Peachtree, 2006.

McKissack, Patricia.
Porch Lies: Tales of Slicksters, Tricksters, and Other Wily Characters.
Illustrated by Andre Carrilho.
New York: Schwartz & Wade, 2006.

Rubin, Susan Goldman. with Ela Weissberger.
The Cat with the Yellow Star: Coming of Age in Terezin.
New York: Holiday House, 2006.

Shoveller, Herb.
Ryan and Jimmy and the Well in Africa That Brought Them Together.
Tonawanda, NY: Kids Can Press, 2006.

Tingle, Tom.
Crossing Bok Chitto: A Choctaw Tale of Friendship and Freedom.
Illustrated by Jeanne Rorex Bridges.
El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press, 2006.

Weatherford, Carol Boston.
Dear Mr. Rosenwald.
Illustrated by Gregory R. Christie.
New York: Scholastic, 2006.

Weatherford, Carol Boston.
Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom.
Illustrated by Kadir Nelson.
New York: Jump at the Sun, 2006.

Ahmadi, Farah.
The story of my life: An Afghan girl on the other side of the sky.
New York: Simon & Schuster, 2005.

Bartoletti, Susan Campbell.
Hitler youth: Growing up in Hitler's shadow.
New York: Scholastic, 2005.

Carling, Amelia Lau.
Sawdust carpets.
Toronto: Groundwood/Douglas & McIntyre, 2005.

Chamberlin, Mary and Chamberlin, Rich.
Mama Panya's pancakes: A village tale from Kenya.
Illustrated by Julia Cairns.
Cambridge, MA: Barefoot Books, 2005.

Hillman, Laura.
I will plant you a lilac tree: A Memoir of a Schindler's list survivor.
New York: Atheneum, 2005.

Johnson-Davis, Denys.
Goha the wise fool.
Illustrated by Hag Handy and Hany.
New York: Philomel, 2005.

Jurmain, Suzanne.
The forbidden schoolhouse: The true and dramatic story of Prudence Crandall and her students.
Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2005.

Krinitz, Esther Nisenthal and Steinhardt, Bernice.
Memories of survival.
New York: Hyperion, 2005.

Nelson, Marilyn.
A wreath for Emmett Till.
Illustrated by Philippe Lardy.
Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2005.

Rappaport, Doreen.
The school is not white! A true story of the Civil Rights Movement.
Illustrated by Curtis James.
New York: Hyperion, 2005.

Reich, Susanna.
José!: Born to dance: The story of José Limon.
Illustrated by Raul Colón.
New York: Simon & Schuster, 2005.

Ruurs, Martriet.
My librarian is a camel: How books are brought to children around the world.
Honsdale, PA: Boyds Mills Press, 2005.

Staples, Suzanne Fisher.
Under the persimmon tree.
New York: Farrar, Straus, & Giroux, 2005.

Weatherford, Carole Boston.
A Negro league scrapbook.
Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills Press, 2005.

Williams, Mary.
Brothers in hope: The story of the lost boys of Sudan.
Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie.
New York: Lee & Low Books, 2005.

Yoo, Paula.
Sixteen years in sixteen seconds.
Illustrated by Don Lee.
New York: Lee & Low Books, 2005. ​

MacDonald, Margaret Read.
Three minute tales: Stories from around the world to tell or read when time is short.
August House, 2004.

Myers, Walter Dean.
Here in Harlem: Poems in many voices.
Holiday House, 2004.

Picture Books (Realistic Fiction)
Kyuchukov, Hristo.
My name was Hussein.
Illustrated by Allan Eitzen.
Boyds Mills, 2004.

Raven, Margot Theis.
Circle unbroken.
Illustrated by E. B. Lewis.
Melanie Kroupa/Farrar Straus & Giroux, 2004.

Picture Books (Historical Fiction)
Hall, Bruce Edward.
Henry and the kite dragon.
Illustrated by William Low.
Philomel/Penguin Young Readers Group, 2004.

Woodson, Jacqueline.
Coming on home soon.
Illustrated by E. B. Lewis.
Putnam/Penguin Young Readers Group, 2004.

Realistic Fiction

Kessler, Cristina.
Our secret, Siri Aang.
Philomel/Penguin Young Readers Group, 2004.

Singer, Marilyn (Ed.).
Face relations: 11 stories about seeing beyond color.
Simon & Schuster, 2004.

Historical Fiction
Chotjewitz, David.
Daniel half human and the good Nazi.
Trans. by Doris Orgel.
Richard Jackson/Atheneum/ Simon & Schuster, 2004.

Nonfiction: Informational Books & Biographies
Freedman, Russell.
The voice that challenged a nation: Marian Anderson and the struggle for equal rights.
Clarion, 2004.

Hill, Laban Carrick.
Harlem stomp!: A cultural history of the Harlem Renaissance.
Megan Tingley/Little, Brown, 2004.

Turner, Pamela S.
Hachiko: The true story of a loyal dog.
Illus. by Yan Nascimbene.
Houghton Mifflin, 2004.

Warren, Andrea.
Escape from Saigon: How a Vietnam War orphan became an American boy.
Melanie Koupa/Farrar Straus & Giroux, 2004.

Weber, Ednah New Rider.
Rattlesnake Mesa: Stories from a Native American childhood.
Photos. by Richela Renkun.
Lee & Low Books, 2004

Cave, K. (2003).
One child, one seed: A South African counting book.
Illustrated by Gisèle Wulfsohn.
New York: Henry Holt.

Dennis, Y. W., & Hirschfelder, A. (2003).
Children of Native America today.
Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishers.

Edwardson, D. D. (2003).
Whale snow.
Illustrated by Annie Patterson.
Watertown, MA: Talewinds/Charlesbridge.

Fleming, C. (2003).
Boxes for Katje.
Illustrated by Stacey Dressen-McQueen.
NY: Farrar, Straus & Giroux.

Krull, K. (2003).
Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez.
Illustrated by Yuyi Morales.
New York: Harcourt.

Jung, R, (1996 published in German /2003 published in English).
Dreaming in black & white.
Translated by Anthea Bell.
New York: Phyllis Fogelman Books.

Mankell, H. (2003).
Secrets in the fire.
Translated by Anne Connie Struksrud.
Buffalo, NY: Annick Press.

Morales, Y. (2003).
Just a minute: A trickster tale and counting book.
San Francisco: Chronicle Books.

Morpurgo, M. (1999 published in Great Britain; 2003 published in U.S.)
Kensuke's kingdom.
New York: Scholastic Press.

Naidoo, B.
Out of bounds: Seven stories of conflict and hope.
New York: HarperCollins.

Philip, N. (2003).
Horses hooves and chicken feet: Mexican folktales.
Illustrated by Jacqueline Mair.
New York: Clarion Books.

Sacre, A. (2003).
The barking mouse.
Illustrated by Alfredo Aguirre. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman & Co.

Shea, P. D., & Weill, C. (2003).
Ten mice for Tet.
Illustrated by To Ngox Trang.
Embroidery by Pham Viet Dinh.
San Francisco: Chronicle Books.

Smothers, E. F. (2003).
The hard-times jar.
Illustrated by John Holyfield.
New York: Frances Foster Books/ Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Tingle, T. (2003).
Walking the Choctaw Road: Stories from Red People Memory.
El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press.

Tryszynska, L. as told to Michelle R. McCann. (2003).
Luba: Angel of Bergen-Belsen.
Illustrated by Ann Marshall.
Berkeley CA: Tricycle Press.
​

Bial, R. (2002).
Tenement: Immigrant life on the lower east side.
Boston: Houghton Mifflin.

Crowe, C. (2002).
Mississippi trial, 1955.
New York: Phyllis Fogelman/Penguin Putnam.

Freedman, R. (2002).
Confucius: The golden rule.
Illustrated by Frederic Clement.
New York: Arthur A. Levine/Scholastic.

Hoffman, M. (2002).
The color of home.
Illustrated by Karin Littlewood.
New York: Phyllis Fogelman Putnam.

Nye, N. S. (2002).
19 varieties of gazelle: Poems of the Middle East.
New York: Greenwillow.

Orozco, J. L. (2002).
Fiestas: A year of Latin American songs and celebration.
Illustrated by Elisa Kleven.
New York: Dutton.

Park, F., & Park, G. (2002).
Good-bye, 382 Shin Dang Dong.
Illustrated by Yangsook Choi.
Washington, DC: National Geographic.

UNICEF. (2002).
A life like mine: How children live around the world.
New York: DK Publishing.

Wong, J. S. (2002).
Apple pie 4th of July.
Illustrated by Margaret Chodos-Irvine.
San Diego, CA: Harcourt.

Chen, D. (2001).
China's son: Growing up in the Cultural Revolution.
New York: Delacorte Press.

Cooper, M. L. (2001).
Slave spirituals and the Jubilee Singers.
New York: Clarion Books.

Garland, S. (2001).
Children of the dragon: Selected tales from Vietnam.
Illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman.
San Diego, CA: Harcourt.

Hoyt-Goldsmith, D. (2001).
Celebrating Ramadan.
Photographs by Lawrence Migdale.
New York: Holiday House.

Johnston, T. (2001).
Any small goodness: A novel of the barrio.
Illustrated by Raúl Colón.
New York: Blue Sky/Scholastic.

Johnston, T. (2001).
Uncle rain cloud.
Illustrated by.Fabricio VandenBroeck.
Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge.

Lipp, F. (2001).
The caged birds of Phnom Penh.
Illustrated by Ronald Himler.
New York: Holiday House.

Mckissack, P. C. (2001).
Goin' someplace special.
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney.
New York City: Atheneum.

Tunnell, M. O. (2001).
Brothers in valor: A story of resistance.
New York: Holiday House.

Deedy, C. A. (2000).
The yellow star: The legend of King Christian X of Denmark.
Illustrated by Henri Sørensen.
Atlanta: Peachtree Publications.

Gold, A. L. (2000).
A special fate : Chiume Sugihara, hero of the Holocaust.
New York: Scholastic Books.

Govenar, A, (Ed.). (2000).
Osceola: Memories of a sharecropper's daughter.
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans.
New York: Hyperion.

Herrera, J. F. (2000).
The upside down boy, El niño de cabeza.
llustrated by Elizabeth Gomez.
San Francisco: Children's Book Press.

Herschler, M. B. (2000).
The darkest corner.
Asheville, North Carolina: Front Street.

Rubin, S. G. (2000).
Fireflies in the dark: The story of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis and the children of Terezin.
New York: Holiday House.

Hamanaka, S., & Ayano O. (1999).
In search of the spirit: The living national treasures of Japan.
Illustrated by Sheila Hamanaka.
Calligraphy by Ayano Ohmi.
New York: Morrow Junior Books.

Harrell, B. O. (1999).
Longwalker's journey: A novel of the Choctaw Trail of Tears.
New York: Dial.

Hopkinson, D. (1999).
A band of angels: A story inspired by the Jubilee Singers.
Illustrated by Raúl Colón.
New York: Atheneum.

Left Hand Bull, J., & Haldane, S. (1999).
Lakota hoop dancer.
Photographs by Suzanne Haldane.
New York: Dutton.

Myers, W. D. (1999).
At her majesty's request: An African princess in Victorian England.
New York: Scholastic.

Silverman, E. (1999).
Raisel's riddle.
Illustrated by Susan Gaber.
New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Wells, R. (1999).
Streets of gold.
Illustrated by Dan Andreasen.
New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.

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​Sharuko: El Arqueólogo Peruano/Peruvian Archaeologist Julio C. Tello By Monica Brown Illus. Elisa ChavarriLee & Low Books/Children's Book Press Woke: A Young Poet's Call to Justice By Mahogany L. Browne, Elizabeth Acevedo, and Olivia Gatwood Illus.

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Infotopia: Literature Other Than English

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Infotopia: Literature Other Than English

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Browse literature in different languages.

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infotopia search engine for selected information and reference sites: arabic literature chinese literature german literature french literature iberian language and literature literary criticism

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Infotopia: Literature Other Than English

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Infotopia search engine for selected information and reference sites: Arabic Literature Chinese Literature German Literature French Literature Iberian Language and Literature Literary Criticism

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10 Ways to Support ELLs in the School Library | Colorín Colorado

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10 Ways to Support ELLs in the School Library | Colorín Colorado

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A great article with effective way to support ELLs in the School Library including selection of books, references, electronic resources and more.

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The school library is an important resource for English language learners (ELLs). It may be the first place many students and their families get experience using a lending library. What can school librarians do to show ELLs that libraries are welcoming places of entertainment and enrichment?

Here are some ideas, and don't miss the recommended resources or the American Association of School Librarians' report on ELLs included at the end of the article.

1. Provide materials in students' home languages in easy-access displays.

There are a number of ways to keep bilingual or foreign language books front and center in the library and to integrate them into the curriculum:

Translated books: Keep your Spanish and other translated books on shelves close to the action, rather than in a hidden corner. If possible, mark these sections with bilingual signs in Spanish/English, Chinese/English, etc.

Curriculum resources: Collaborate with teachers to learn more about topics they are studying so you can display as many translated books as possible on topics students will be studying.

3. Provide electronic access to materials in other languages.

Many online resources are also available in other languages, such as the following:

Reference materials: Spanish versions of World Book Online, Grolier Online, and Encyclopædia Britannica's PlanetaSaber. (Check to see what's available as part of these websites' subscription packages.) You may also wish to show students how to use the English-Spanish online dictionaries that include audio pronunciation guides, such as Merriam-Webster or WordReference.com.

Reading materials: Share stories with your students from the International Children's Digital Library, which includes children's books in more than 50 languages.

Post links to these websites on your library web page for easy access from school or home.

4. Provide audio materials and instructions on how to use them.

Audio materials can be very helpful to ELL learners, from books on CD to free podcasts. If students don't have access to devices, you can also help students access these materials through:

Playaways®: These are audio books that are preloaded on a portable player. A number of children's and young adult titles are available. Students may need instruction on how to use the players and help changing batteries.

Library-owned CD players, MP3 players, or iPods: Many classrooms and libraries are using technology to support ELLs' language acquisition. Students can use these players in the library to listen to ESL podcasts, listening activities on CD, or other audio programs.

Library computers: Students can use headphones to listen to free podcasts or watch educational videos.

Short translated instruction sheets and stickers for players and computers will help students learn how to use these technologies effectively.

5. Share culturally relevant and responsive literature.

The library is a wonderful place to ensure students have access not only to diverse books but books that are culturally meaningful. By incorporating these stories into our collection and library time, we validate a child's cultural heritage, and foster their self-esteem and adjustment.

Start by looking for ways to highlight and feature more diverse books all throughout the year, especially books that will serve as "mirror books" for your students. You can also share culturally relevant titles through the following activities:

Students cultural celebrations: Recognize ELL students' home celebrations by doing read-alouds on these holidays and asking students to share their own traditions. Review books first with colleagues or community members for authenticity and accuracy.

Halloween: Read one of the children's book versions of "La Llorona, the Weeping Woman" - a Hispanic folktale the students may have heard from family members - or another story from the Spooky Stories: Diverse Books for Kids booklist.

Thanksgiving: ELLs may feel left out when hearing stories of families eating traditional American foods which are not served in their own homes. Share stories of immigrants celebrating Thanksgiving in their own way. This topic is near and dear to my heart, and I focus on this issue in my children's book Duck for Turkey Day. Additional titles are featured on the Colorín Colorado Thanksgiving Tales booklist, which also includes books that provide guidance on updating the way we talk about Native history as it relates to Thanksgiving. (See more tips in Tips for Choosing Culturally Appropriate Books & Resources About Native Americans.)

Finally, look for opportunities to add more diverse books to your library collection. If you need resources that support these purchases, see Colorín Colorado's guide on using diverse books with ELLs.

9. Use visuals in home communication.

The concept of a lending library may be new to immigrant families. You can help them get familiar with library books by doing the following:

Recognizing library books: Prepare a short translated note explaining when library books must be returned. Include a bar code, a spine sticker, and library stamp on the letter to help parents identify library materials, which must be returned to the library by a certain date, as opposed to RIF books and Title I materials.

Overdue notices: If books are overdue, send home a print-out from your catalogue that contains the book cover, or send an e-mail with the book cover graphic. Visuals can get better results than a translated note simply listing the name of the overdue book.

10. Promote the public library too!

There are a number of things that school librarians can do to encourage ELL families to use the public library:

Librarian outreach: Invite a public librarian to come to an evening event, provide an overview of library materials and resources (with lots of visuals!), and sign up new families for library cards. It's important for families to know that they do not need to be U.S. citizens to use the resources at the public library.

Library cards: Encourage your ELL families to obtain a public library card. Keep a list available (in different languages if possible) of different resources at your local library so that you can show parents what they will be able to use if they get a card.

Family night: Arrange for an evening family event at the public library, where families can take a tour, visit the children's section, and learn about programs offered at their local branches.

Note: Colorín Colorado's family tip sheet The Resources at Your Library is available in English and Spanish.

Closing Thoughts

Try some of these ideas this year! I hope you find they go a long way in helping ELLs feel comfortable and welcome in the school library, and that they support student learning throughout the year.

Recommended Resources

AASL Report on ELLs: School Libraries Count!

In 2007, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) initiated an annual survey of school library media programs. Each year, the survey addresses a current issue within the school library field in addition to its standard questions. In 2009, AASL focused these questions on English Language Learners (ELLs). This report summarizes those findings.

Recommended Websites and Databases

*This website requires a subscription.

A Welcoming Library

Learn how to make your library accessible for children in multiple languages in this clip from Launching Young Readers: Becoming Bilingual.

This video is also available on YouTube.

About the Author

Jacqueline Jules is a teacher, librarian, poet, and author of fourteen children's books. Two of them, No English and Duck for Turkey Day, were directly inspired by her work with English Language Learners as an elementary school librarian in a Title I school in Virginia. No English is the story of two second grade girls who find a creative way to overcome a language barrier. Duck for Turkey Day is the story of Tuyet, who is worried because her family is not following the "rules" for Thanksgiving she learned in school. Both books validate the immigrant experience in America, encourage readers to reach out to newcomers, and embrace the diversity in our schools. To learn more about Jacqueline, take a look at Colorín Colorado's 2008 interview with her and her website!

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10 Ways to Support ELLs in the School Library

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The school library is an important resource for English language learners (ELLs). It may be the first place many students and their families get experience using a lending library. What can school librarians do to show ELLs that libraries are welcoming places of entertainment and enrichment?

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A list created by parents to share what they deem objectionable content in books for different age levels.

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A busy parent’s quick reference to objectionable material your child or young adult may be reading.

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An Experiment with Inclusive Literature: One White Elementary Librarian’s Endeavor to Diversify Her Picture Book Collection - Diverse BookFinder

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An Experiment with Inclusive Literature: One White Elementary Librarian’s Endeavor to Diversify Her Picture Book Collection - Diverse BookFinder

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Comprehensive list of picture books featuring people of color and indigenous peoples. Includes Collection Analysis Tool (CAT)

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In May 2017, I was invited by Anne Sibley O'Brien, author and illustrator, and by Dr. Krista Aronson, psychology professor at Bates College in Maine, to participate in the Diverse BookFinder Advisory Council. The Diverse BookFinder is an online comprehensive source that parents, teachers, librarians, authors, and publishers can use to locate picture books featuring people of color and indigenous peoples. It is linked with a circulating collection of picture books, housed at Ladd Library on the Bates College campus, featuring characters from First/Native Nations, Asian, Black, Latinx, Middle Eastern/Arab, and multiracial backgrounds, in stories set in the United States and abroad. This is my 17th year as a school librarian and it has been in the last few years that I have been aware of the need to have an inclusive collection that reflects our diverse population. So when I received the invitation to join the Diverse BookFinder Advisory Council, I enthusiastically said, "Yes!"

As part of my work on the Advisory Council, I offered to run an experiment for this 2018-2019 school year asking the question: What if the only picture books and picture book biographies I buy for my K-3 collection only featured characters of color? Lots of secondary questions quickly flooded my mind:

Will there be enough picture books and picture book biographies published to purchase?

Will these titles be easily available through my two vendors, Ingram and Follett?

Will I have to search other vendors to find the titles I want to purchase and, if so, how easy or not easy will it be to purchase from a different vendor? (PO's, processing, etc)

How will I find new inclusive, quality titles to purchase?

Will I, a white librarian, do this experiment justice?

The only way I was going to find the answers to these questions was to try it.

The first thing I did was to do an informal analysis of my purchases from the last two years. I created a report in my library catalog system that told me which picture books and picture book biographies I purchased in a given fiscal year and then I looked at each title and tallied them as either Y (features characters of color), N (does not feature characters of color), or NH (nonhuman characters). The results of my analysis can be found in the pie charts below. This is my 3rd year in my district. I was not surprised to find that, even as recently as a few years ago, only 15% of the picture books/picture book biographies purchased featured characters of color.

However, it was nice to see that from 2016-2017 to 2017-2018, I clearly doubled the number of books I purchased featuring characters of color. But I knew that I could do better than that! In addition to setting the goal of only purchasing picture books/picture book biographies with characters of color, I also created these two goals:

Increase the number of books with characters of color to at least 50% of the total picture books/picture book biographies purchased.

I also decided to set some exception criteria for purchasing because I could foresee some instances where I would need to buy a book that did not feature characters of color and I wanted to be able to clearly explain why. I will make every attempt to ensure that each picture book/picture book biography purchased features characters of color with these exceptions:

Books that have won children's literary awards

Books that are requested by teachers; however, l will first try to find books with characters of color that satisfy the teacher's request

Books that have nonhuman character that have excellent reviews

Books that students request

So there it is! That's the plan for my experiment and I am looking forward to see how this year plays out. Stay tuned as I will write updates about my progress in the winter and the spring.
Laura Beals D'Elia is the school librarian at the Armstrong Elementary School in Westborough, MA

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An Experiment with Inclusive Literature: One White Elementary Librarian's Endeavor to Diversify Her Picture Book Collection - Diverse BookFinder

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In May 2017, I was invited by Anne Sibley O'Brien, author and illustrator, and by Dr. Krista Aronson, psychology professor at Bates College in Maine, to participate in the Diverse BookFinder Advisory Council. The Diverse BookFinder is an online comprehensive source that parents, teachers, librarians, authors, and publishers can use to locate picture books featuring people of color and indigenous peoples.

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ALA's site to provide quick links to current and relevant updates in libraries. Includes what libraries do, how to get involved, info for book lovers, and libriarians.

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This Library Card Sign-Up Month, show everyone your love and support for libraries with a new shirt, hoodie, tote, apron, and more from the American Library Association (ALA). With graphics designed by ALA's own Chase Ollis (who's also a frequent I Love Libraries contributor), these goods are guaranteed to turn heads whenever you go while also emphasizing the power of a library card. Get them today! ...

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This Library Card Sign-Up Month, show everyone your love and support for libraries with a new shirt, hoodie, tote, apron, and more from the American Library Association (ALA). With graphics designed by ALA's own Chase Ollis (who's also a frequent I Love Libraries contributor), these goods are guaranteed to turn heads whenever you go while also emphasizing the power of a library card.

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Resources for Book Challenges | American Association of School Librarians (AASL)

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Resources for Book Challenges | American Association of School Librarians (AASL)

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ALA's resources for book challenges, position statements and guides, community and professional development, state initiatives and statements.

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American Association of School Librarians (AASL)

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Unite Against Book Bans Unite Against Book Bans is a national initiative to empower readers everywhere to stand together in the fight against censorship. ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom: Challenge Support The ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom provides confidential support during censorship cha…

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Research Model - The Big6 is a process model of how people of all ages solve an information problem. Problem solving with sections.

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Promoting The Big6 model, approach, and programs to promote essential, lifelong information problem-solving skills thinking, learning, and teaching in schools and informal learning contexts. The Big6 is an information literacy process, a research process, and an inquiry process because it describes the way we complete assignments and solve problems in any situation.
The Big6 is a six-stage model to help anyone solve problems or make decisions by using information. Some call it information literacy, inquiry, research skills, or an information problem-solving process...but we call it the Big6!

Using the Big6, you will identify goals, seek, use, and assemble relevant, credible information, then reflect-is the final product effective and was my process efficient? The Big6 works anywhere-the classroom, workplace, or at home. Moreover, it works across content areas and aligns easily with state and national learning standards.
Read our press release announcing the new Big6.org!

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Lists and links to publishers and vendors of materials for school librarians.

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Resources for School Librarians - Index
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This site is maintained by Linda Bertland, retired school librarian, Philadelphia, PA. Please address any comments, additions, or corrections to info@sldirectory.com.

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Resources for School Librarians - Index Up to Top This site is maintained by Linda Bertland, retired school librarian, Philadelphia, PA. Please address any comments, additions, or corrections to info@sldirectory.com.

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Links to resources for library promotion

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Resources for School Librarians - Index
Menu: General Web Sites | Special Events | Advocacy |Graphics and Bulletin Boards |

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This site is maintained by Linda Bertland, retired school librarian, Philadelphia, PA. Please address any comments, additions, or corrections to info@sldirectory.com.

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Resources for School Librarians - Index Menu: General Web Sites | Special Events | Advocacy |Graphics and Bulletin Boards | Up to Top This site is maintained by Linda Bertland, retired school librarian, Philadelphia, PA. Please address any comments, additions, or corrections to info@sldirectory.com.

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Home - Massachusetts School Library Research Project - Research Guides at Salem State University

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Home - Massachusetts School Library Research Project - Research Guides at Salem State University

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This site has a information on MA School Library Commission, School Library Studies, conference presentations, freedom of information and advocacy materials.

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Research Guides: Massachusetts School Library Research Project: Home

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Research Guides: Massachusetts School Library Research Project: Home

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ALA | Workbook for Selection Policy Writing

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ALA | Workbook for Selection Policy Writing

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The ALA walks you through writing a school selection policy. Includes sample forms such as reconsideration form.

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ALA | Workbook for Selection Policy Writing

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Every school system should have a comprehensive policy on the selection of instructional materials. It should relate to and include all materials. A comprehensive policy on the selection of instructional materials will enable school professionals to rationally explain the school program to the commu…

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Massachusetts Association of School Committees - provides information about school library and media policies.

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MASC Delegate Assembly 2022

MASC's 77th annual meeting was held at the start of the annual conference in Hyannis, Wednesday, November 2. A total of 87 delegates representing school districts across the state were registered and participated in the deliberations.

The meeting was led by MASC President Andrea Wadsworth (Lee). The Association's Financial Report was presented by Secretary-Treasurer Jason Fraser (Plympton and Silver Lake Reg.). In the absence of Nominating Committee Chair Ellen Holmes, President-Elect Stacey Rizzo (Revere) presided over the board elections. Ms. Rizzo, who chaired the Resolutions Committee, introduced the six resolutions that were considered and voted on by the delegates.

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MASC - Massachusetts Association of School Committees

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MASC promotes effective school leadership and student achievement in Massachusetts through education advocacy, professional development and education. MASC services include conferences and training for MA school committee members, superintendents and school attorneys, superintendent job postings and search consulting, education policy support and policy manual development, school legal and mediation services, legislative advocacy and more.

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Massachusetts Association of School board Committees standard outline for library/media center policies.

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Microsoft Word - Nonfiction Articles for Kids.docx

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Microsoft Word - Nonfiction Articles for Kids.docx

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Links to many non-fiction sites where students can find news, offering information about the website, such as if you need an account, reading levels, if it costs anything, and more

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Why school librarians matter: What years of research tell us - kappanonline.org

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Why school librarians matter: What years of research tell us - kappanonline.org

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A great article on the many benefits of having professional school librarians and reasons for why they matter.

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Why school librarians matter: What years of research tell us - kappanonline.org

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Research shows positive correlations between school library programs and student achievement.

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Links to many resources policy manuals, handouts, guidelines, volunteers, ideas and more.

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Resources for School Librarians - Index
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Policies and Expectations - Grand View Elementary School library, Manhattan Beach, CA.

Library and Overdue Policies - Schuylerville Elementary School, Schuylerville, NY.

Library Rules and Procedures - Emmaus High School, PA

Library Rules - Schuylkill Elementary School, Phoenixville, PA

Te Totara Primary School Policies - Hamilton, NZ

Policies and Procedures - University High School Library, Urbana, IL.

Rethinking School Library Fines - an article by Mica Johnson in Knowledge Quest, Dec. 12, 2018.

More Support for Ending School Library Fines - an article by Mica Johnson in Knowledge Quest, March 21, 2019.

Library Policy for Overdue or Lost or Damaged library books - From Shaull Elementary School. No library fines for late books.

Ridley High School. No library fines for late books.

Internet Use Policies - Students should be informed about the rules for use of library computers. Note that clicking this will take you to another page.

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This site is maintained by Linda Bertland, retired school librarian, Philadelphia, PA. Please address any comments, additions, or corrections to info@sldirectory.com.

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School library procedure manuals, student and faculty handbooks, guides for volunteers, and ideas for new school librarians

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The School Library Media Specialist: Program Administration

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The School Library Media Specialist: Program Administration

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Information on time management.

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With increasing demands, the school library media specialist must establish priorities and use time wisely.

It seems to take forever to get these books shelved.

I never seem to have time to partner with teachers.

I get the most work done when everyone is gone at the end of the day.

There's only limited time in the day, week, and month. Is your time well-spent? This is a difficult question. Everything you do should focus on your mission to create a community of lifelong learners.

However professionals vary on their definition of "good use of time". Is helping a child find a good book, brainstorming with a seventh grader, or sharing a new website with a teacher a "good use of time"? As you look at your entire program and all the individual teachers and children in your building, you need to establish your own criteria for "good use of time."

Professional positions are constantly being cut. You need to be able to defend your use of time. If much of your time is spent with clerical work or something that a parent volunteer would do for free, why pay you?

Read An Analysis of the Time Use of Elementary School Library Media Specialists and Factors That Influence It by Jean Donham Van Deusen in School Library Media Quarterly. 24:2, Winter 1996.

How do you manage time?

Before you can make good use of time, you must analyze your current time expenditures. This involves collecting data about time distribution.

Logs and Journals . The easiest way to do this is through the use of a log. Don't think of this as a boring, time consuming practice. Instead, make it a relaxing part of your day. For five minutes at the end of each day, journal about your day. Sit on the couch and write in a leather-bound paper journal or use a laptop and a word processor.

After several weeks, go back through the journal and develop some categories. Enter this data on a spreadsheet for each day. From there, create pie charts for each day or a single chart for a multiple week period.

Charts. Some people prefer to simply use a chart to record their activities. First, established a list of activities such as answering reference questions, shelving books, troubleshooting computer problems. Then develop categories for these topics. For example your categories could be based on audience (i.e., student related, teacher related), level of thinking (i.e., low-level question, decision making required), or center area (i.e., collection development, technology, promotion).

Some people prefer to skip the journal and simply carry around a printed spreadsheet with 15 minute intervals at the beginning of each row and the categories listed across the top.

- Check out the chart below. It focuses on four levels of professional activities (lo=1 and hi=4). In this case the media specialist is spending lots of time doing both very low and very high level tasks. One third of the time is spent on activities that an unskilled clerk could complete. What can be done to eliminate some of these very low level tasks?

Variations. In addition to finding out how you spend your time, you can also get a picture of where you spend your time. You could then indicate the level of the activity such as 4 indicates high level thinking and 1 indicates low level task.

- you might find that you are spending too much time at the front desk doing low level tasks.

How do you apply this information?

Consider ways that collaboration, leadership, and technology can help you address time concerns. For example, you could use technology to create a self-instructional tutorial in PowerPoint that reviews basis information skills, so you can spend time with students on high level thinking activities.

Some of the data you collect from your analysis may have obvious implications, but it's critical to document you experiences as evidence for justifying budgets and positions. For example, if you can show that you're spending way too much time doing "front desk" work, you may be able to justify hiring a clerk. Or, if you're spending time shelving books, maybe it's time to get a group of students involved.

You may also find that you don't need more people, you just need better directions on your equipment, step-by-step instructions for use of electronic databases, and lists of reading ideas for your students. A few minutes spent addressing the problem and creating a permanent solution will save hours of time in the long run.

- keep a "question sheet" at the front desk. Record the common questions from teachers and students. If you get the same question more than twice, create a "help sheet". If the question relates to using a software package or electronic database use screen dumps to visualize the process. Then, print it out, put it in a plastic sheet, and add it to a help notebook at the front desk. This way it's ready.

- teachers may have a tough time hooking up the DVD player to their television. Consider labeling the cables with bright colors. The red dot on the cable goes to the red dot on the back of the DVD player. This matches the red dot on the television monitor. Velcro the remote control to the top of the DVD player so it doesn't get lost.

- create small posters for your fiction section directing students to related books they might like. For example, "If you like Harry Potter, you'll love..." Developing these signs will help you get to know your collection as well as help students locate good reading materials without your assistance. It also promotes independent library use.

How do I decide what to give up?

I love to read to children. Do I have to give that up? Who is going to shelve the books if I don't do it? What about mending books, keeping up the vertical file, and promoting resources? Where do I draw the line?

With limited time in the day, you must make tough choices. To add the high level activities, you need to remove low level activities.

Eliminate Things . Your first step should be to examine those areas that may need to be eliminated entirely. For example, since you've had an automated system for 10 years, maybe it's time to quit filing cards. Since there are lots of materials on the Internet, maybe it's not a good use of your time to maintain the vertical file.

Shift Thinking . If you're spending much of your day putting out "fires", maybe you need to develop a list of priorities. In other words, you may be spending much of your time on "little things" and never getting to the important ones. Could student volunteers answer technical questions? Could students check books out by themselves?

Radical Change. You may need to make some radical changes such as moving your professional desk away from the traffic pattern or reserving time each day to visit teachers in their classrooms. Without planning, it's easy for days to pass with little sense of accomplishment.

You'll be surprised how much time you can create when you carefully analyze your time use.

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Check Your Understanding

Information Power: Information Access and Delivery - Principle 4. The library media program requires flexible and equitable access to information, ideas, resources for learning. (p. 83, 89)

Create a list of tasks that would fall under each of the following categories: low level clerical, high level clerical, low level professional, and high level professional. How much time do you think the typical library media specialist spends completing activities in each category? What do you think is an appropriate distribution? Compare your thinking with another media specialist.

Generate three examples of ways that a library media specialist could save time. Would these time savers cost money? How much time could be saved in a typical week?

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Make It Real

Think about how you spend your time (24/7) right now. Conduct an analysis how you spend your time (i.e., day, couple days, week). Are you surprised by your findings? Discuss what you might do to adjust your distribution of time.

Read More About It

Everhart, Nancy and Atalig, Kristi. Research into Practice: The Impact of Year-Round Schools on the Library Media Program. Knowledge Quest; 32(2), Nov/Dec 2002.
http://www.ala.org/ala/aasl/aasl...

Van Deusen, Jean Donham. An Analysis of the Time Use of Elementary School Library Media Specialists and Factors That Influence It. School Library Media Quarterly. 24:2, Winter 1996.
http://www.ala.org/ala/aasl/aasl...

Time Management

Clark, Don. Time Management. Big Dog's Leadership Page; May 1997.
http://www.nwlink.com/~donclark/leader/leadtime.html
Analyze how you spend your time and implement a few time saving methods.

Time Management from University at Buffalo, NY
http://ub-counseling.buffalo.edu/stresstime.shtml
There is no such thing as time management, but there is self management.

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The School Library Media Specialist: Program Administration

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With increasing demands, the school library media specialist must establish priorities and use time wisely. It seems to take forever to get these books shelved. I never seem to have time to partner with teachers. I get the most work done when everyone is gone at the end of the day.

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Free design space

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With version 1.3 of Inkscape, you'll find improved performance, several new features, and a solid set of improvements to a few existing ones.

This version is squarely focused on helping users get organized and work more efficiently with our free and open source vector-editing software.

A week with The GIMP project at Blender HQ, Amsterdam

I was really excited to have the opportunity to meet some of the GIMP developers in-person after many conversations with them over IRC in the past, and Wilberweek presented not only a great opportunity to do just that, but also to visit the Headquarters of another of my favourite FOSS projects, the unstoppable freedom-centric software juggernaut that is the Blender project.

From shapes and patterns to documents and fonts, Inkscape's 1.3 beta release offers you some new features, alongside a basket full of improvements large and small. Let's dig into a few of the bells and whistles this new version has to offer.

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Inkscape is professional quality vector graphics software which runs on Linux, Mac OS X and Windows desktop computers.

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Catchy visuals, edit videos, create infographics, reports, presentations, posters, make videos

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Infographic Maker Trusted By 11 Million Users - Piktochart

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With Piktochart AI, you can create stunning infographics, reports, presentations, and more in seconds. No design experience needed. Start for free.

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Wide variety of templates for infographics

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Join over 5 Million professionals who consider Venngage the infographic maker of choice. Pick from 10,000+ professional templates made for businesses.

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A wide variety of templates for infograhics, posters, presentations and more.

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Lists of most challenged books by year

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The American Library Association condemns censorship and works to defend each person’s right to read under the First Amendment and ensure free access to information. Every year, ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) compiles a list of the Top 10 Most Challenged Books in order to inform the pub…

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A conservative group posts a book review list

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parents fighting to protect children from school overreach

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